Are you craving a homemade meal but feeling too lazy to put in the effort? Look no further! These Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs are the perfect solution for those nights when you want something delicious without the hassle. Imagine this: you simply toss frozen meatballs and sauce into the slow cooker, and by the time you’re ready for dinner, they’ll be cooked to perfection. Whether you pair them with pasta or serve them on hoagies for a classic meatball sub, you’re in for a treat!
The Beauty of Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs
Italian meatballs are a staple in many households, celebrated for their rich flavors and comforting texture. However, traditional recipes can be time-consuming and messy. Our slow cooker version streamlines the process, allowing you to enjoy all the flavors of homemade meatballs with minimal effort. It’s ideal for busy weekdays, lazy weekends, or anytime you need a comforting meal without breaking a sweat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Preparation: Just toss everything in the slow cooker—no browning or prep required!
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy with spaghetti, on hoagies, or even as a snack with toothpicks.
- Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prep; just store leftovers in the freezer for later use.
- Delicious and Filling: Packed with flavor and protein, these meatballs will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen Italian meatballs (store-bought or homemade)
- 24 oz jar of marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Cooked pasta or hoagie rolls for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
- Add Meatballs and Sauce: Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour the marinara sauce over the top, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Season: Sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the meatballs and sauce. Stir gently to combine.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The meatballs should be heated through and tender.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the meatballs over cooked pasta, or pile them onto hoagie rolls for easy meatball subs. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Conclusion
With this Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs recipe, you can enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal without the fuss. It’s perfect for those lazy nights when cooking feels like too much work. Just set it and forget it, and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to go. So, why not give it a try?
Get your slow cooker ready and whip up these Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs for your next easy meal! Don’t forget to share your culinary creations on social media and tag us. Happy cooking!
Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs
Equipment
- Slow cooker Essential for hands-off cooking
- Measuring spoons For seasoning
- Serving utensils For dishing up pasta or hoagies
Ingredients
- 2 lbs frozen Italian meatballs (store-bought or homemade)
- 24 oz jar of marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Cooked pasta or hoagie rolls for serving
Instructions
- Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
- Place the frozen meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour the marinara sauce over the top, ensuring all meatballs are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the meatballs and sauce. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours until the meatballs are heated through and tender.
- Serve the meatballs over cooked pasta or hoagie rolls. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
