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Easy Crockpot Meatball Recipe Quick and Budget Friendly
katya bou

Easy Crockpot Meatball Recipe

This easy crockpot meatball recipe delivers fall-off-the-fork tender meatballs simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, requiring minimal effort and offering versatile serving options.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Sauce
  • 1 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 15 ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 6 ounce can tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for spice
Meatballs & Extras
  • 1 pound frozen meatballs beef, pork, turkey, or combination
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, add last 30 minutes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing onions
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion sautéed optionally to enhance flavor
  • 1 teaspoon minced fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • skillet, optional for browning meatballs

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until fully blended.
  2. Optional: Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté chopped onions until translucent for added depth of flavor.
  3. Pour the prepared sauce into the crockpot. Add the sautéed onions if using, then gently place the frozen meatballs evenly in the sauce.
  4. Stir gently to coat meatballs with sauce without breaking them apart.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Check for doneness after minimum cook time; meatballs should be heated through and tender.
  6. Optional: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
  7. Serve hot over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice or as a sandwich filling. Garnish with minced fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Calories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 720mgFiber: 3gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 350IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

For richer flavor, brown meatballs in a skillet before adding to crockpot. Adjust sauce thickness by adding water or broth if too thick, or simmer uncovered in last hour for thicker sauce. Try plant-based or gluten-free meatballs for dietary variations.
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