Description
Juicy, tender beef meatballs slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce. These Crockpot Beefy Meatballs are perfect for pasta night, game day, or an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 2 pounds – The hearty base of the meatballs, rich and flavorful.
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup – Helps bind the meatballs and keep them tender.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated – Adds a salty, umami depth.
- Eggs: 2 large – Binds the ingredients together for the perfect shape.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced – Infuses the meatballs with bold, aromatic flavor.
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped – Adds moisture and sweetness to the mix.
- Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped – Brightens the flavor profile.
- Salt: 1½ teaspoons – Enhances the overall taste.
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon – Adds a subtle kick and rounds out the seasoning.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tablespoon – Gives a classic herb blend to both meatballs and sauce.
- Crushed Tomatoes: 28 ounces – Forms the savory, slow-cooked sauce.
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons – Thickens the sauce and boosts the tomato flavor.
- Beef Broth: ½ cup – Adds depth and prevents sauce from becoming too thick.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (if browning meatballs) – Helps sear and seal in flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Set your crockpot to LOW (or HIGH if short on time). Lightly grease the insert with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until just combined.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: (Optional) In a skillet over medium heat, brown meatballs in batches for 1–2 minutes per side. This adds extra flavor and holds shape.
- Assemble the Dish: Pour half of the crushed tomatoes and broth into the crockpot. Layer in the meatballs. Top with remaining crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until meatballs are tender and fully cooked.
- Finishing Touches: Gently stir to coat meatballs in sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot over spaghetti, in sub rolls, or as a protein-packed appetizer. Don’t forget the extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top!
Notes
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
- Browning meatballs before slow cooking adds flavor but is optional.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
- Double the recipe and freeze extra for later meals.