Ah, Crockpot Meatballs with Marinara Sauce! This dish brings back so many wonderful memories for me. I remember the first time I made it for a gathering of friends. The aroma filled the entire house, and I could hardly wait for everyone to arrive before I dove into the deliciousness myself! There’s something about letting the flavors meld together in the slow cooker all day long that makes the meatballs irresistibly tender and flavorful. Plus, it’s such a cinch to prepare; you can throw everything in the pot and forget about it for hours—perfect for those lazy Sundays.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you serve the meatballs over spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or just by themselves with a sprinkle of Parmesan, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. And let’s not forget the grand finale of dipping a crusty piece of bread in the rich marinara sauce! Are you drooling yet? Let’s dive into what you’ll need to whip this up!
What’s in Crockpot Meatballs with Marinara Sauce?
Ground Beef: The star of the show! I usually prefer a lean ground beef (80/20) for well-balanced meatballs that are juicy but not dripping with fat. You could also use ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option.
Breadcrumbs: These give the meatballs a nice texture and help them hold together. I prefer using seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor, but plain works too—just might need a pinch of salt!
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this aged cheese elevates the flavor of the meatballs. I like to use freshly grated Parm, but the pre-grated stuff is just fine in a pinch.
Egg: The binding agent that holds everything together and gives the meatballs a lovely tenderness.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses incredible flavor. I can’t stress this enough: the fresher, the better!
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme—it’s essential for giving those meatballs that classic Italian flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought works like a charm, but if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade marinara is where the magic happens! I have my favorite recipe, but I won’t judge you for grabbing a jar from the store.
Is Crockpot Meatballs with Marinara Sauce Good for You?
Yes, indeed! These meatballs can pack a nutritious punch.
Ground Beef: When using lean ground beef, it’s a great source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12. However, it’s still a red meat, so it’s wise to enjoy it in moderation.
Breadcrumbs: They add a delightful texture to the meatballs, but if you’re watching your carbs, you can substitute with almond flour or crushed oats.
Parmesan Cheese: This not only adds flavor but also contributes calcium and protein. Just remember, moderation is key, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake.
And of course, marinara sauce is loaded with tomatoes, which are high in antioxidants like lycopene. So, while this dish isn’t the lightest, it certainly has ingredients worth celebrating!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (seasoned preferred)
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
This will serve about 4 to 6 people, depending on how hungry your guests are (or how many meatballs you can sneak!).
How to Make Crockpot Meatballs with Marinara Sauce?
1. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; don’t overwork it, or your meatballs might turn out tough.
2. Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
3. In your slow cooker, pour about a cup of marinara sauce on the bottom.
4. Carefully place the meatballs on top of the sauce in the slow cooker.
5. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are mostly covered.
6. Set the slow cooker on low and cook for about 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer, the better; trust me!
7. When it’s ready, serve hot over pasta, in sub rolls, or just on their own. Don’t forget to garnish with more Parmesan and fresh parsley if you have it on hand!
Meatball Magic: Tips and Variations
– If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a kick!
– Try different herbs if you want to mix it up—fresh basil or parsley can work wonders.
– These meatballs freeze beautifully! Make a double batch and freeze some for a busy weekday when cooking is the last thing you want to do.
– Opt for a slow cooker liner for super easy cleanup. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
I can’t wait for you to try these Crockpot Meatballs with Marinara Sauce! They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a fun gathering with friends. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing them as I have. Don’t forget to let me know how your cooking adventure goes! Happy cooking!