Oh, let me tell you about my love affair with spaghetti and meatballs! There’s just something so comforting and nostalgic about this dish. I remember as a kid, my mom would whip up her special spaghetti sauce on Sunday afternoons, filling the house with that amazing aroma. We’d gather around the table, and even though I was just a little kid, there was something so grown-up and sophisticated about twirling spaghetti around my fork. I still get that warm, fuzzy feeling each time I make it!
Now, as an adult, I’ve discovered the magic of the slow cooker, which means I can enjoy this classic dish without spending hours in the kitchen. This Slow Cooker Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe for two is perfect for date nights, cozy evenings at home, or even when you just want to treat yourself to something delicious. So let’s get cooking together!
What’s in Slow Cooker Spaghetti and Meatballs?
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish extra special! Each component works together to create mouthwatering flavors, and trust me, you’ll want to take your time savoring each bite.
Ground Beef: I typically use ground beef for the meatballs as it gives that classic flavor. You could also experiment with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together and give them a tender texture. I love using Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for a little extra zing, but plain ones work too!
Egg: A crucial ingredient that acts as a binder for the meatballs. It helps everything stick together, so don’t skip this!
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness and color to the meatballs. If you don’t have fresh, dried parsley will do in a pinch.
Garlic: Because what dish isn’t better with garlic? It infuses the sauce with a delightful aroma and flavor.
Crushed Tomatoes: This is the base of the sauce and provides sweetness and acidity. I prefer using canned San Marzano tomatoes for their rich, sweet flavor.
Spaghetti: Obviously, the star of the show! I recommend using spaghetti or any pasta shape you adore.
Is Slow Cooker Spaghetti and Meatballs Good for You?
Oh, definitely! This dish can fit into a balanced diet quite nicely. Let’s break it down a bit:
Ground Beef: Packed with protein and iron, which are essential for energy and muscle health. Just opt for lean ground beef to keep the fat content down.
Whole Wheat Pasta: If you want to take it up a notch, use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber, which is great for digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
Tomatoes: These are full of vitamins, particularly vitamin C, and are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which is great for heart health.
But as with anything, moderation is key! Keep an eye on portion sizes if you’re watching your caloric intake, and feel free to load up on a side salad for some extra veggies.
Ingredients
– 1/2 pound of ground beef
– 1/4 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pepper
– 4 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
This recipe serves two, so it’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy night in!
How to Make Slow Cooker Spaghetti and Meatballs?
Now for the fun part! Let’s get these meatballs cooking.
1. **Prepare the meatballs:** In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined, but don’t overmix. Form the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs (about 12).
2. **Brown the meatballs (optional):** If you have the time and want to add a bit of flavor, you can quickly sear the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until browned. This step isn’t necessary, but it adds a nice touch!
3. **Add to slow cooker:** Place the crushed tomatoes in the bottom of your slow cooker and then gently nestle the meatballs on top.
4. **Cook:** Set your slow cooker to low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. You want the meatballs to be cooked through and the sauce to be bubbling.
5. **Cook the spaghetti:** About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
6. **Combine:** Once the meatballs are done, you can either serve them on top of the spaghetti or mix them directly into the sauce.
7. **Garnish and serve:** Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy!
Spaghetti and Meatballs Hacks and Tips
Let’s make this dish even better, shall we? Here are a few of my favorite hacks and tips:
– **Meatball Variations:** Experiment with different meats! Ground pork, turkey, or even vegetarian options can lead to delicious variations.
– **Cut the carbs:** You can swap spaghetti for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a fantastic low-carb alternative.
– **Make ahead:** This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a larger batch and freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for those busy nights.
Please, if you try this Slow Cooker Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out! There’s just something magical about bringing a classic dish to life in a slow cooker. It’s one of those meals that brings people together and allows you to sit back and enjoy good company. Happy cooking!