Slow Cooker Sunday Gravy Meatballs Perfect for a Crowd
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever craved that Sunday dinner vibe without spending all day in the kitchen? This meatballs slow cook recipe nails it. Honestly, the flavour is just... chef's kiss .
Brief Overview
Inspired by classic Italian American Sunday gravy recipes , this dish is proper comforting. It's an easy meatball recipe that takes about 25 minutes to prep, plus 6- 8 hours in the slow cooker on low.
This crockpot meatballs recipe yields 6-8 servings.
Main Benefits
One of the best things? It’s packed with protein, making it a satisfying meal. Plus, this homemade meatballs slow cooker method is brilliant for family gatherings or a casual get-together.
What makes it special is the deep, rich flavour that develops over hours of slow cooking.
Okay, let's get this show on the road! This meatballs slow cook recipe will become your next Sunday favourite.
This italian meatball recipe reminds me of my Nan's kitchen.
It's all about creating an easy meatball recipe and a rich sunday gravy recipe , and then piling those delicious meatballs into a meatball sub recipe !
Alright Let's Do This: Meatballs Ready, Set, Slow Cook!
Fancy a lazy Sunday with a hearty meal? Think tender meatballs simmering in a rich tomato sauce, filling your house with amazing smells all day.
We're talking about my legendary meatballs slow cook recipe , and trust me, it's a game changer.
Why settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary? I adapted the recipe found on Allrecipes to make it even easier. This recipe makes the best slow cooker meatballs ! You know?
This is a easy meatball recipe and I have made it multiple times and believe the secret is in searing the meatballs. Don't skip this step!
Seriously, there's nothing like coming home to a ready-made feast, especially when it's as comforting as this italian meatball recipe .
Serve it over pasta, polenta, or even in a sub you won't be disappointed.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Cookin'!
Okay, let's get this show on the road! Ready to whip up some amazing meatballs slow cook recipe ? We're talking seriously comforting, Sunday dinner vibes. No stress, just good food.
Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter
For these slow cooker meatballs , quality is key. We want flavour that'll knock your socks off!
- Ground Beef: 1.5 lbs (680g) . Use an 80/20 blend. The fat is flavour!
- Ground Pork: 0.5 lb (225g) . This adds richness.
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (100g) . Italian seasoned, plain, or even panko works.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (50g) , grated. Plus, extra for serving. Go for the real stuff!
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup (15g) , chopped. Fresh herbs make a difference.
- Eggs: 2 large, lightly beaten.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon (5g) .
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) . And more to taste.
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) . And more to taste.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons . For searing, if you fancy it.
For the sauce, grab these:
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons .
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce/794g) can .
- Tomato Sauce: 1 (15 ounce/425g) can .
- Tomato Paste: 1 (6 ounce/170g) can .
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup (240ml) . Beef broth works too.
- Dried Basil: 1 tablespoon .
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon .
- Sugar: 1/2 teaspoon . Balances the acidity.
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon . Optional, for a kick.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
I remember one time, I skimped on the Parmesan. Big mistake! The flavour just wasn't the same.
Seasoning Notes: The Secret Sauce
The right spices make all the difference. Think Italian herbs, garlic, and a touch of sweetness. This is how we achieve the best meatball recipe !
- Essential Spice Combo : Basil, oregano, garlic. The Italian holy trinity.
- Flavor Enhancers : A pinch of sugar balances the tomato acidity. Red pepper flakes add heat, optional of course.
- Substitutions : Don't have basil? Use Italian seasoning. No fresh garlic? Garlic powder will do in a pinch.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You don't need fancy gadgets for this easy meatball recipe . Less washing up, more eating.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For the meatball magic.
- Slow Cooker: 6-quart or larger. This is your hero.
- Skillet: Optional. Only if you're searing.
Honestly, this crockpot meatballs recipe is so easy, even I can't mess it up... and I've had my share of kitchen disasters! These homemade meatballs slow cooker style are amazing in a meatball sub recipe or a meatballs and pasta recipe , but also perfect for a simple sunday gravy recipe .
Meatballs Slow Cook Recipe : Your Sunday Dinner Sorted!
Okay, let's get this show on the road! We're diving into the Full Monty of comfort food: meatballs slow cook recipe .
Honestly, who doesn't love meatballs? This recipe is perfect for a lazy Sunday. I'm sharing my go-to crockpot meatballs recipe that's practically foolproof.
Prep Steps: Get Your Mise En Place On
First things first: mise en place , baby! This fancy French term just means getting everything organized. You know, chopping your onion, mincing garlic.
It seriously saves time. Gather your 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 is the biz), 0.5 lb ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, eggs, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper.
For the sauce, it’s olive oil, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, basil, oregano, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if you like a kick!).
Remember to wash your hands!
step-by-step: Slow Cooker Magic
This is where the magic happens, mate!
- Mix your meats, breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley, eggs, garlic, and seasonings in a large bowl.
- Gently combine. Don't overmix!
- Form into 1.5-2 inch meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in olive oil for extra flavour, optional .
- Sauté onion and garlic in the pot or skillet.
- Add tomatoes, sauce, paste, broth, basil, oregano, sugar, and red pepper flakes to the pot.
- Nestle meatballs in the sauce.
- Slow cook on low for 6- 8 hours or high for 3- 4 hours .
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Meatballs
Want the best meatball recipe ? Here's the tea: Don't overmix! Seriously, it's the biggest mistake. You'll get tough meatballs, and nobody wants that.
My secret? Searing adds a tonne of flavour. But if you're rushed, skip it. This is meant to be an easy meatball recipe , after all.
Also, don't skip the breadcrumbs ! Use quality ground meat! And use good quality tomatoes. These will have a big difference in the flavour of the dish.
Thinking about leftovers? This sunday gravy recipe gets even better the next day! Serve it with pasta, polenta, or even on toasted bread for a cheeky meatball sub recipe.
Oh my gosh, the possibilities!
Recipe Notes for Your Award Winning Meatballs!
Okay, let's get this show on the road! You've got the basic meatballs slow cook recipe , but now it's time for those little touches that’ll make it truly special.
I’ve thrown in my two cents, based on my own kitchen adventures, to help you nail it. honestly, it's all about making it your best meatball recipe .
Serving Suggestions That'll Wow!
Plating is your chance to shine. I like to serve these slow cooker meatballs over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta think spaghetti or rigatoni, something that grabs all that delicious sunday gravy recipe .
Don't forget a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley! For a rustic touch, serve it family style in a big bowl right in the middle of the table.
Side dishes are your supporting cast. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the italian meatball recipe .
And let's not forget the crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of sauce. A glass of Chianti would definitely be the cherry on top, you know?
Storage Tips: Making the Good Times Last
These crockpot meatballs recipe are fantastic for meal prep. Once cooled, portion them out into airtight containers. They'll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days .
Want to freeze them? No problem! Place the cooled meatballs and sauce in freezer bags, squeeze out any air, and they'll be good for up to 3 months .
Reheating is a breeze thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations: Putting Your Own Stamp On It
Feeling adventurous? Swap out some of the ground beef for ground turkey to lighten things up a bit. Or, if you're veggie, try using plant based ground "meat".
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
Seasonally, you could add some roasted butternut squash to the sauce in the fall for a hint of sweetness. It totally elevates the meatballs and pasta recipe !
Nutrition Basics: Fueling Your Body
Each serving packs a punch, with about 450 calories, 35g of protein, 25g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, 3g of fiber, 8g of sugar and 800mg sodium .
That protein will keep you full and satisfied. Remember these are estimates based on 8 servings.
So, there you have it! A meatballs slow cook recipe that's foolproof and adaptable. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
Now, go forth and create some amazing homemade meatballs slow cooker magic! You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really just dump everything in the slow cooker and forget about it? Sounds like a right 'avin' a laugh!
Almost! While the meatballs slow cook recipe is super simple, browning the meatballs first (which is optional), and sautéing the onions and garlic for the sauce base really elevate the flavour. Think of it as adding a bit of fairy dust to a perfectly good potion - you'll get a richer, deeper flavour.
But if you're short on time, chucking it all in works just fine too!
My sauce turned out a bit watery. Is it knackered, or can I fix it?
Don't despair! A watery sauce is easily fixable. First, remove the meatballs and set them aside. Then, turn the slow cooker to high and simmer the sauce uncovered for about an hour, or until it reduces to your desired consistency.
You can also thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) added in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How long can I keep these meatballs slow cook recipe leftovers, and what's the best way to store them?
Properly stored, these meatballs will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure they're completely cooled before transferring them to an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I use different types of meat in this meatballs slow cook recipe? I fancy something a bit different!
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for a mix of ground beef and pork, you can experiment with other meats. Ground turkey or chicken are great leaner options. Italian sausage (removed from its casing) would add a wonderful spicy kick.
Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly depending on the flavour profile of the meat you choose.
What can I serve with these meatballs besides just pasta? I'm a bit bored of spaghetti, innit?
Fancy a change from the usual pasta routine? These meatballs are fantastic served over creamy polenta, mashed potatoes (garlic mashed, even better!), or even on crusty bread as meatball subs. For a lighter option, try serving them with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
And don't forget a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to finish!
Slow Cooker Sunday Gravy Meatballs Perfect For A
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 3g |
