10 Must-Try Slow Cooker Meatball Recipes You Need to Try

If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting meals, you’ve got to try these 10 must-try slow cooker meatball recipes! We’re kicking things off with delicious Salisbury Steak Meatballs, then showcasing a variety of mouthwatering options like Swedish, Italian, and BBQ-inspired meatballs. Get your slow cooker ready for some seriously tasty eats!

BBQ Meatballs with Tangy Sauce

These BBQ meatballs are a crowd-pleaser, combining juicy beef meatballs with a tangy, sweet sauce that makes each bite bursting with flavor. Perfect for parties or a cozy dinner, they’re simple to make and require minimal prep time.

Imagine the delicious aroma filling your kitchen as they cook low and slow in the slow cooker. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings everyone together for a fun, casual meal. Pair them with your favorite sides, and you have a dish that will quickly become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
2. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them in the slow cooker.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
5. Once done, serve the meatballs with a drizzle of sauce and garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Blue Cheese Dip

If you’re looking for a game-day snack or an easy weeknight dinner, buffalo chicken meatballs are the way to go! These meatballs pack a punch of flavor with just the right amount of heat, perfectly complemented by a creamy blue cheese dip. They’re simple to prepare and come together in your slow cooker, making them a hassle-free option for any occasion.

The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and tender chicken makes these meatballs irresistible. Serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, and watch them disappear in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, green onions, egg, 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Place the meatballs in the slow cooker and pour the remaining buffalo sauce over them. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until cooked through.
4. To make the blue cheese dip, combine blue cheese crumbles, sour cream, and lemon juice in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
5. Serve the meatballs hot with the blue cheese dip on the side!

Teriyaki Meatballs with Pineapple

Teriyaki meatballs with pineapple are a delightful take on a classic dish. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce paired with juicy meatballs creates a perfect balance of flavors. The addition of pineapple adds a refreshing twist, making it a favorite at any gathering.

This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. Just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix together ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, garlic, soy sauce, and half of the teriyaki sauce until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about one inch in diameter.
3. Place the meatballs in the slow cooker and pour the remaining teriyaki sauce over them. Add the pineapple chunks on top.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
5. Before serving, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce

These Greek meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic. Infused with herbs and spices, they pack a punch of flavor that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Pair them with a creamy tzatziki sauce for a taste of the Mediterranean that’s simply irresistible.

Making these meatballs is easy and perfect for a relaxed evening. Just mix the ingredients, form the meatballs, and let your slow cooker do the work. The result is tender, juicy meatballs that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or lamb
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, cumin, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Place the meatballs in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until cooked through.
4. For the tzatziki sauce, mix 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1 grated cucumber (squeezed dry), 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and salt to taste in a bowl.
5. Serve the meatballs warm with tzatziki on the side and enjoy!

Classic Swedish Meatballs with Creamy Sauce

Swedish meatballs are a comforting classic, perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. These tender meatballs are usually served in a creamy, savory sauce that’s incredibly satisfying and flavorful. Plus, making them in a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully while you go about your day.

The taste of Swedish meatballs is a delightful balance of spices and creaminess. They offer a rich and hearty meal that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to whip up. Whether served over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even on their own, these meatballs will surely impress!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, egg, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and allspice until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Cook the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the browned meatballs to your slow cooker.
4. In the same skillet, add beef broth and soy sauce, stirring to deglaze the pan. Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
6. Before serving, stir in the sour cream. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a little water and add it to the sauce while stirring until thickened.
7. Serve hot, ideally over egg noodles or mashed potatoes, and enjoy!

Moroccan Spiced Meatballs with Couscous

These Moroccan spiced meatballs offer a delightful twist on your typical meatball dish. Infused with warm spices like cumin and coriander, they’re savory and aromatic, making them a standout choice for dinner. Paired with fluffy couscous and fresh veggies, this meal is not only delicious but also simple to whip up in your slow cooker.

The flavors meld beautifully over slow cooking, resulting in tender meatballs that are bursting with taste. Plus, serving them over couscous adds a delightful texture, complementing the spices perfectly. Let’s dive into this easy recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or lamb
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup couscous
• 1 cup diced vegetables (like bell peppers and carrots)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, breadcrumbs, parsley, onion, garlic, spices, egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them in the slow cooker.
3. Pour the vegetable broth over the meatballs, ensuring they are submerged.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until cooked through.
5. Prepare the couscous according to package instructions, adding the diced vegetables to the boiling water to cook.
6. Serve the meatballs over couscous, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Salisbury Steak Meatballs in Rich Gravy

Salisbury Steak Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining the heartiness of meatballs with the rich flavors of Salisbury steak. These tender meatballs are smothered in a savory gravy that brings comfort and satisfaction to every bite. Plus, making them in a slow cooker simplifies the process, allowing for a hands-off approach while ensuring deep flavors develop over time.

The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings creates a moist and tasty meatball, while the gravy adds a layer of richness that perfectly complements its texture. Serve these meatballs over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a cozy meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup mushroom soup
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional for thickening)

Instructions

1. Mix the Ground Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Prepare the Gravy: In the slow cooker, whisk together beef broth, mushroom soup, and ketchup until well combined.
3. Add Meatballs: Place the meatballs in the gravy mixture, ensuring they are submerged.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
5. Thicken the Gravy (Optional): If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Italian Meatballs in Homemade Marinara

Italian meatballs in homemade marinara are a comforting favorite that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. Juicy meatballs, made with a blend of ground beef and pork, are simmered in a rich, flavorful marinara sauce that’s easy to whip up. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Every bite is a burst of flavor, thanks to the herbs and spices that enhance the meatballs and sauce. Served over pasta or with crusty bread, this meal is sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 cups marinara sauce
• Spaghetti or your choice of pasta

Instructions

1. Mix the Meat: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Brown the Meatballs: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.
4. Simmer in Sauce: Transfer the meatballs to a slow cooker and pour the marinara sauce over them. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the meatballs are cooked through.
5. Serve: Cook your pasta according to package instructions. Serve the meatballs over the pasta, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Meatball Sub Sandwiches with Melted Cheese

Meatball sub sandwiches are a cozy, satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week. These sandwiches feature tender, juicy meatballs smothered in rich marinara sauce, topped with melted cheese, all nestled in a soft hoagie roll. They’re not only delicious but also super easy to whip up, making them a go-to option for busy nights or game days.

The combination of flavors in a meatball sub is sure to impress. The meatballs can be made with various meats and seasonings, allowing you to customize them to your taste. The gooey cheese adds a delightful creaminess that pairs perfectly with the robust sauce. Serve these subs with a side of fries or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 4 hoagie rolls
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Shape into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Cook the Meatballs: In a slow cooker, place the meatballs and pour the marinara sauce over them. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the meatballs are cooked through.
3. Assemble the Subs: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the hoagie rolls and place them on a baking sheet. Fill each roll with meatballs and sauce. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious meatball subs!

Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs with Tomato Sauce

These vegetarian lentil meatballs are a fantastic twist on the classic meatball dish. Packed with protein and flavor, they offer a satisfying and hearty option that everyone can enjoy. The lentils create a rich texture, while the blend of spices and herbs adds a delightful depth of taste. Plus, they are super easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Served with a homemade tomato sauce, these meatballs are sure to become a favorite at your table. They work well over pasta, in a sub, or even on their own. The comforting flavors and simple ingredients make this recipe a go-to for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike!

Ingredients

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for a vegan option)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• Spaghetti or your choice of pasta, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook Lentils: In a saucepan, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender. Drain any excess liquid and let cool.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
3. Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, sautéed onion and garlic, oregano, basil, cumin, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet.
5. Cook Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
6. Heat Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, heat the tomato sauce in a saucepan.
7. Serve: Toss the baked meatballs in the sauce and serve over spaghetti or your choice of pasta. Enjoy!