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Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs – Tender, Saucy & Full of Flavor

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Tender, flavorful meatballs slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect over pasta, in subs, or as appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 lb ground pork

  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/2 cup milk

  • 2 eggs

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes or marinara

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1/2 tsp dried basil

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, mix beef, pork, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.

  • Form into 1.5-inch meatballs.

  • Optional: Brown meatballs in a skillet for 2–3 minutes per side.

  • Place meatballs in slow cooker. Pour tomatoes over the top. Add herbs and red pepper flakes.

  • Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

  • Stir gently before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Freeze leftovers in sauce for up to 3 months.

  • Use all beef or substitute ground turkey if preferred.

  • Add red wine or balsamic vinegar for deeper sauce flavor.