Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Meatballs Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal this fall or winter, nothing beats the warmth and rich flavors of Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Meatballs. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs infused with Italian herbs, simmering in a savory tomato Parmesan sauce. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld perfectly, resulting in a dish that’s both effortless and indulgent.

Ingredients & Their Roles

1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy) – Adds rich, savory flavor and moisture to the meatballs.
1 pound ground beef – Provides structure and balances the fat content for tender meatballs.
1 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs while keeping them soft and light.
2 large eggs – Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together during cooking.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, salty flavor and depth.
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – Brightens the meatballs with freshness and color.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the meatballs with aromatic, bold flavor.
1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Provides subtle heat and balance.
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs – Adds authentic Italian flavor (oregano, basil, thyme).
2 cups marinara sauce – The rich, tangy base for slow-cooked flavor infusion.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional) – For a melty, cheesy finish on top.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine Italian sausage, ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, but avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.

2. Form the Meatballs

Use your hands to shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet or plate, ensuring they’re not touching to maintain their shape.

3. Brown the Meatballs (Optional but Recommended)

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a small amount of olive oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides for 2–3 minutes each. This step enhances flavor and texture but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

4. Prepare the Slow Cooker

Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce into the slow cooker. Gently place the meatballs into the sauce, ensuring they’re mostly covered. You can swirl the sauce lightly to coat the meatballs evenly.

5. Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. The meatballs should be fully cooked, tender, and infused with the rich tomato Parmesan flavor.

6. Optional Cheese Topping

For a cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the meatballs in the last 15 minutes of cooking. Cover and allow the cheese to melt beautifully.

Why This Recipe is Loved

Effortless slow cooking ensures tender, juicy meatballs every time.
Balanced combination of sausage and beef delivers rich flavor and texture.
The tomato Parmesan sauce perfectly complements the meat, making it comforting and hearty.
Perfect for meal prep – leftovers taste even better the next day!

Pro Tips for Perfect Meatballs

Don’t overmix the meat mixture to avoid dense meatballs.
Brown meatballs first for enhanced flavor, even though it’s optional.
Use a combination of mild and spicy sausage to suit your taste.
For extra sauce flavor, simmer the sauce with garlic and onions before adding meatballs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over spaghetti or fettuccine for a classic Italian dinner.
Pair with garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
Top with fresh basil and extra Parmesan for a restaurant-quality presentation.
For a low-carb option, serve alongside zoodles or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food: rich, tender, and bursting with flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – mix, slow cook, and enjoy! Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy dinners, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Once you try these meatballs, you’ll understand why they’re so beloved – juicy, hearty, and infused with authentic Italian flavors that are impossible to resist.