Are you a fan of hearty, comforting meals that can be easily prepared and served? Look no further! Crock pots are a staple in many kitchens, allowing us to cook up a storm without much fuss. And when it comes to meatballs, there’s no denying the allure of a slow-cooked batch that melts in your mouth. Italian-inspired flavors add an extra layer of excitement, with the likes of marinara sauce, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 delectable crock pot meatball recipes, each one packed with flavor and sure to become a new family favorite.
Slow Cooker Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Gravy
Experience the flavors of Sweden with this hearty and comforting dish, perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, oats, milk, flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Add chopped onion and egg to the mixture; mix until just combined.
4. Form into meatballs (about 20-25).
5. Place the meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour in beef broth and heavy cream.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. Stir in butter before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot BBQ Grape Jelly Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this unique combination of flavors – tender beef, sweet grape jelly, and tangy BBQ sauce! These Crock Pot BBQ Grape Jelly Meatballs are perfect for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup grape jelly
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12-15 meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Crock Pot to Low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together grape jelly and BBQ sauce until smooth.
3. Place the meatballs in the Crock Pot. Pour the grape jelly-BBQ mixture over them.
4. Add Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper; stir gently to combine.
5. Cook on Low for 2-1/2 hours or High for 1 hour, until the meatballs are cooked through and coated in the sweet and tangy glaze.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Italian-Style Slow Cooker Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
A hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in. These slow-cooked meatballs are infused with the rich flavors of Italy and simmered to perfection in a savory marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Place meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour in crushed tomatoes and olive oil. Stir to coat.
5. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 3-6 hours
Spicy Sriracha Honey Crock Pot Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this sweet and spicy twist, featuring the bold flavors of sriracha and honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, Sriracha sauce, and honey. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them in the crock pot.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a drizzle of Sriracha sauce (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Teriyaki Pineapple Slow Cooker Meatballs
Savory meatballs smothered in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce, infused with the tropical flavor of pineapple. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing main course or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 can pineapple rings in juice (8 oz)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to Low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour teriyaki sauce over the top, followed by pineapple rings.
5. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional pineapple slices and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Ranch Drizzle
Transform your party into a flavor fiesta with these spicy and savory meatballs!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup ranch seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Crock Pot to low.
2. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch seasoning. Mix well with your hands until just combined (don’t overmix).
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into 12-15 meatballs.
4. Place meatballs in the Crock Pot. Cook on low for 2 hours or high for 1 hour.
5. While meatballs cook, mix chopped scallions with ranch seasoning and a splash of buffalo wing sauce (optional).
6. Serve meatballs hot with ranch drizzle spooned over the top.
Cooking Time:
Low: 2 hours | High: 1 hour
Garlic Parmesan Slow Cooker Meatballs
Savor the flavors of Italy with this easy and delicious recipe that combines tender meatballs with a rich garlic parmesan sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a plate or tray.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
5. Transfer meatballs to slow cooker with marinara sauce and chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1 1/2 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1 1/2 hours (high)
Mushroom Stroganoff Crock Pot Meatballs
A comforting, slow-cooked twist on the classic dish, featuring tender meatballs smothered in a rich and creamy mushroom sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) beef broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat crock pot to low.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into 12-15 meatballs. Place in the crock pot.
4. Add sliced mushrooms, garlic, beef broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to the crock pot. Stir to combine.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sweet and Sour Meatballs
Transform your favorite meatball recipe into a sweet and sour masterpiece with the help of your slow cooker. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Place meatballs in the slow cooker and pour sweet and sour sauce over them.
5. Cook for 6-8 hours or until meatballs are cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Crock Pot Cranberry Glazed Turkey Meatballs
Elevate your holiday gathering with this sweet and savory Crock Pot Cranberry Glazed Turkey Meatballs recipe, perfect for a stress-free and deliciously flavorful party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Crock Pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, oats, cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Add cranberry sauce, honey, and thyme to the Crock Pot. Stir to combine.
5. Add meatballs to the Crock Pot, leaving a little space between each.
6. Cook for 3-4 hours or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Greek-Style Slow Cooker Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki
Experience the rich flavors of Greece with these tender lamb meatballs, slow-cooked in a savory tomato-based sauce and served with a refreshing tzatziki dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker on low.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25). Place in the slow cooker.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. For tzatziki sauce, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, and dill in a bowl.
7. Serve meatballs with tzatziki dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Bourbon Bacon Jam Crock Pot Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with the rich flavors of bourbon, bacon, and jam!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup Bourbon Bacon Jam (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Add bourbon whiskey, crumbled bacon, and Bourbon Bacon Jam to the meat mixture. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
4. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place in crock pot.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot with your favorite pasta, rice, or as a sub sandwich.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mongolian Meatballs with Green Onions
Transform your meatball game with this easy and flavorful slow cooker recipe, infused with the bold flavors of Mongolia.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, honey, ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them in the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Cheesy Jalapeño Meatballs
A flavorful twist on classic meatballs, these Crock Pot Cheesy Jalapeño Meatballs combine the comfort of a warm crock pot with the spicy kick of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat Crock Pot to low (6 hours).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Place meatballs in the Crock Pot with marinara sauce. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Cooking Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
Mediterranean Slow Cooker Meatballs with Olives and Feta
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, with tender meatballs slow-cooked in a savory sauce featuring olives and crumbled feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to Low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, feta cheese, and olives. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Roll mixture into meatballs (about 20-25). Place in the slow cooker.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, garlic, and olive oil to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Crock Pot Maple Dijon Meatballs
Sweet and savory, these meatballs are perfect for a cozy evening or a party. Made with ground beef, pork, and a hint of maple syrup, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat Crock Pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place meatballs in Crock Pot. Pour maple syrup and Dijon mustard over the top. Add beef broth.
5. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
Cooking Time: 6 hours (low), 3 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Moroccan Spiced Meatballs with Couscous
Elevate your weeknight meal routine with this flavorful and aromatic slow cooker recipe that combines tender meatballs with fluffy couscous, infused with the warmth of Moroccan spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place in the slow cooker.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and olive oil to the slow cooker. Stir gently.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, cook couscous according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork.
7. Serve meatballs over couscous and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Chipotle Lime Meatballs with Avocado Crema
Add a spicy twist to traditional meatballs with these Crock Pot Chipotle Lime Meatballs, served with a creamy Avocado Crema. Perfect for a flavorful and easy dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-14 meatball-sized balls of aluminum foil
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Crock Pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chipotle peppers, garlic, lime juice, and olive oil. Mix well with hands or wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and place in prepared Crock Pot.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve with Avocado Crema (recipe below).
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Meatballs with Spinach
Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Meatballs with Spinach Recipe
Transform your slow cooker into a creamy Tuscan haven with these tender meatballs, smothered in a rich and savory spinach sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Roll mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them in the slow cooker.
4. Add diced tomatoes, heavy cream, oregano, and spinach to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Korean Gochujang Meatballs
This Crock Pot recipe brings the bold flavors of Korea to your meatball game, with the addition of gochujang, a fermented chili paste. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat Crock Pot to Low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, soy sauce, gochujang, and sesame oil. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Place meatballs in the Crock Pot.
5. Cook on Low for 4-5 hours or High for 2-3 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (Low) or 2-3 hours (High)
Summary
Discover the world of delicious slow-cooked meatball recipes, all with an Italian-inspired twist! From classic Swedish-style meatballs to spicy Sriracha honey and teriyaki pineapple, there’s something for every palate. Try slow cooker BBQ grape jelly meatballs or garlic parmesan for a savory treat. For something different, indulge in bourbon bacon jam, Mongolian-style green onions, or Mediterranean olives and feta. With 20 mouth-watering recipes to choose from, you’ll never tire of this comforting, crowd-pleasing dish.
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