Super Tender Italian Meatballs in the Slow Cooker

Looking for meatballs that are so tender they practically melt in your mouth? This slow cooker Italian meatball recipe is a game-changer! Loaded with Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and garlic, these meatballs simmer low and slow, developing a depth of flavor you won’t forget. Whether you’re cooking for family or a gathering, these meatballs are bound to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate Tenderness: Slow cooking lets the flavors fully infuse, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Perfectly Seasoned: With Parmesan, garlic, and fresh herbs, every bite is a burst of Italian goodness.
Set-It-and-Forget-It Convenience: This slow cooker recipe saves you time, so you can focus on other things while your meatballs cook to perfection.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef (or meatloaf mix: pork/veal/beef)
1/2 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 large egg, lightly beaten

For the Sauce:

1 jar grape jelly
1 bottle chili sauce
1 jar or can spaghetti sauce
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (with juice)
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1-2 tablespoons sugar (optional, to cut acidity)

Cooking Tips:

Breadcrumb Ratio: For perfectly tender meatballs, use about 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs per pound of meat to avoid dryness.
Flavor Additions: Add a touch of garlic and onion powder for an extra savory kick.
Reduce Greasiness: If you prefer, drain the meat mixture on paper towels before adding it to the slow cooker.

Directions

1. Make the Meatballs:

In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and egg until well combined.
Shape the mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

In a slow cooker, combine the spaghetti sauce, crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, and sugar (if desired). Stir well.

3. Add Meatballs to Slow Cooker:

Gently place the meatballs into the sauce mixture in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours or until meatballs are cooked through and tender.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve hot with spaghetti, or as an appetizer. Top with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Italian meatballs with al dente pasta or serve on a sub roll with melted mozzarella for a classic meatball sub. Add a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months if making in bulk.

Why These Meatballs Are Worth Trying

There’s nothing like the rich, slow-simmered flavor of homemade Italian meatballs. Once you try this foolproof recipe, you’ll see why it’s a family favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying slow cooker meatballs for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a staple.

Enjoy this recipe, and don’t forget to share it with your fellow food lovers!