Homemade Meatballs

There is nothing better than walking into your home to the cozy aroma of delicious comfort food that has been simmering for hours. This meatball recipe is quick and easy to make and the flavor is unbeatable. Serve with pasta, over mashed potatoes, as a pizza topping, or in a sub roll for a tasty sandwich.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
Sear Time: 10-15 minutes
Cook Time: 5-6 hours on LOW (or 2-3 hours on HIGH)
Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes – 6 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 18-24 meatballs (depending on size)

What You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl
Large Skillet
Tongs or spoon
Measuring cups & spoons
Crockpot
Food grade disposable gloves (optional)

Ingredients

2 lbs. ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 eggs
1 tbsp milk
3 cloves garlic, minced (or paste / powder versions equivalent)
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp grated parmesan
2 tsp onion powder
1 tbsp dried parsley
splash or two Worcestershire sauce (optional)
salt and pepper to taste
2-4 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
1 jar marinara or tomato sauce (45 oz.)

Instructions

1. Mix all ingredients (except the sauce & olive oil) in a large mixing bowl.
Tip: Gloves make mixing easier and less cold on the hands.

2. Roll into golf-ball-sized meatballs or slightly larger.

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and heat over medium-high heat.

4. Sear meatballs on all sides (do not fully cook).
This locks in the flavor.

5. Place meatballs in the slow cooker and pour sauce over them.

6. Cook on LOW 5-6 hours or HIGH 2-3 hours. Give them a gentle stir halfway through.

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Serve With Suggestions

Pasta
Sub rolls (as meatball subs)
Mashed potatoes
Rice bowls
Or use as a topping for DIY pizza night

Substitutions & Variations

Add red pepper flakes to your sauce for some heat
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
Swap breadcrumbs for crushed Ritz crackers for extra flavor

Final Thoughts

Making homemade meatballs is a bit more effort than tossing frozen meatballs in sauce, but nothing beats the flavor and texture of homemade. This recipe comes together quickly with minimal prep and fills your home with the most delicious aroma while they slow cook to perfection. Give it a try and let me know how you like them! for more cozy comfort food inspiration check out my Hearty Beef Stew Recipe – Hey Ivy