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Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 25 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground pork (or all beef)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for slight heat)
  • For the Marinara Sauce:
  • 4 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 1–2 tbsp olive oil
  • Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh basil or parsley
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Prepare meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until just combined. Shape into 1½–2 inch meatballs.
  • Optional sear: Heat a skillet with olive oil and sear meatballs on all sides until lightly browned. This adds flavor but is not necessary.
  • Prepare sauce: In a separate bowl or skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent. Add tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir to combine.
  • Combine in slow cooker: Pour half of the marinara sauce into the slow cooker. Place meatballs on top, then cover with remaining sauce.
  • Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
  • Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Serve with pasta, crusty bread, or as a sub sandwich.