Dinner

Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs

Name: Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds (680g) ground beef; 1/2 pound (225g) ground pork; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons milk; 2 jars (24 oz each) marinara sauce

ByMariem December 31, 2025

Jump to Recipe

Tender Italian meatballs simmered in rich tomato sauce, infused with herbs and slow‑cooked to perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow cooking allows the meatballs to absorb the flavours of the sauce, resulting in succulent, deeply flavoured bites. This hands‑off dish is ideal for busy days and feeds a crowd with minimal effort.

ingredients

ground beef (or a mix of pork and beef)
breadcrumbs
grated Parmesan cheese
eggs
garlic, minced
Italian seasoning
salt
black pepper
tomato sauce (canned or homemade)
fresh parsley (optional)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

directions

In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, cheese, eggs, garlic, seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Form into evenly sized meatballs.
Place meatballs in a slow cooker and pour tomato sauce over them.
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6–8
Preparation: 20 minutes
Slow cooking: 3–8 hours
Total: Variable

Variations

• Add red pepper flakes for heat.
• Stir in a splash of red wine to the sauce.
• Use turkey or chicken for lighter meatballs.

storage/reheating

Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Freeze cooked meatballs in sauce up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead?

Yes, assemble meatballs and refrigerate overnight before cooking.

Should meatballs be browned first?

Browning adds depth but is optional when slow cooking.

Are these gluten‑free?

Use gluten‑free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten‑free.

How do I keep meatballs from falling apart?

Do not overmix the meat and ensure proper binding with eggs and breadcrumbs.

What sauce is best?

A classic Italian tomato sauce works beautifully, but marinara or spicy arrabbiata are fine.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, freeze fully cooked meatballs in sauce.

How do I serve them?

Over pasta, polenta, or in sandwiches.

Are these spicy?

Season to taste; mild by default.

How to prevent sauce from being watery?

Cook uncovered at the end to reduce excess liquid.

Can kids eat these?

Yes, they are kid‑friendly and mild unless extra spice is added.

Conclusion

Slow cooker Italian meatballs deliver comforting, flavour‑rich results with minimal effort — perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

Mariem