Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
Creating Slow Cooker Meatballs is quite simple if you follow these handy steps:
1. Combine Meats: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and pork.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: Add breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the meat mixture.
3. Add Egg: Crack the large egg into the bowl and use your hands to mix everything together. Ensure everything is well incorporated, but avoid over mixing, which can make the meatballs tough.
4. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Brown the Meatballs (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, brown the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side. This step is optional but recommended for an enhanced taste.
6. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the formed meatballs into the slow cooker, spreading them out evenly.
7. Pour Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs, covering them completely.
8. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
9. Check for Doneness: Ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) before serving.
10. Serve Warm: Use a slotted spoon to serve the meatballs with sauce over your dish of choice.
By following these steps, you’ll create an incredible meal that everyone will love!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6-8 meatballs per person
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g