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Introduction:
When it comes to preparing a hearty and satisfying meal without much effort, a slow cooker is a kitchen superhero. One of the easiest yet most flavorful recipes you can make is a simple meatball dish. By rolling two large meatballs and letting them slow-cook, you create a savory dinner that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend meal. This dish is easy, versatile, and bound to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how you can make these tender, juicy meatballs in your slow cooker!
Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tbsp dried parsley)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (or your favorite tomato-based sauce)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning, optional)
Directions:
Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as it can make the meatballs tough.
Form the mixture into two large meatballs, roughly the size of a tennis ball. If you want, you can make them slightly smaller for more servings.
Optional Browning:
For a richer flavor, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is optional but adds depth to the flavor.
Slow Cooking:
Place the meatballs in the slow cooker and pour the marinara sauce over them. Make sure the meatballs are covered in sauce, but they don’t need to be submerged.
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The meatballs will cook gently, absorbing the sauce's flavors while staying juicy and tender.
Finishing Up:
Once the meatballs are cooked through and tender, carefully remove them from the slow cooker. Serve them on a platter with extra marinara sauce or with a side of pasta, rice, or bread.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: Serve your slow-cooked meatballs with a side of spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or a green salad for a complete meal. You can also enjoy them on sub rolls for an easy meatball sandwich.
Storage: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place the meatballs and sauce back in the slow cooker on low until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Variations:
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