When it comes to busy weeknights, having a reliable arsenal of delicious and easy-to-make meals can be a lifesaver. And what’s more comforting than a warm, tender meatball simmered in rich flavors all day long? The humble crock pot is the perfect tool for whipping up these tasty treats, and we’ve got 19 mouthwatering recipes to prove it. From classic Italian-inspired dishes to spicy twists and international flair, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a meatball novice or a seasoned pro, these slow-cooked stunners are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Crock Pot Meatballs
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Crock Pot Meatballs: A flavorful twist on traditional meatballs, this recipe combines the sweetness of BBQ sauce with a spicy kick from hot sauce, all wrapped up in tender, slow-cooked goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Sauce
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat your crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs in crock pot, leaving a little space between each one.
5. Pour BBQ sauce and hot sauce over the top of the meatballs.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. Remove from crock pot and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Parmesan Crock Pot Meatball Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, cheesy, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party. This recipe combines tender meatballs, rich parmesan sauce, and al dente pasta in one delicious crock pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat crock pot to low.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add meatballs to the crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, and basil.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce in the crock pot. Stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Tangy Cranberry Crock Pot Meatballs
Savor the flavors of fall with these tender and tangy meatballs, infused with cranberries and simmered to perfection in a crock pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Place meatballs in crock pot.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together cranberry sauce and beef broth. Pour over meatballs.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Garlic Herb Crock Pot Turkey Meatballs
Elevate your mealtime with this deliciously easy recipe for Garlic Herb Crock Pot Turkey Meatballs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these tender meatballs are infused with the savory flavors of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, and thyme. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place in crock pot.
4. Pour olive oil over the top of the meatballs. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 6-8 hours.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 6-8 hours (high)
Savory Italian Crock Pot Meatball Subs
Elevate your sub game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 sub rolls
– Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat the crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Place meatballs in the crock pot with crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, preheat oven to broil. Assemble subs by placing cooked meatballs on sub rolls, then top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Place under broiler until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 6 hours (low crock pot) + 30 minutes (oven)
Teriyaki Pineapple Crock Pot Meatballs
Get ready for a tropical twist on classic meatballs! These tender morsels are smothered in a rich teriyaki sauce infused with the sweetness of pineapple, perfect for a weeknight dinner or party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, soy sauce, honey, pineapple juice, water, brown sugar, and ginger. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs in the crock pot.
5. Pour teriyaki sauce over the meatballs.
6. Add pineapple chunks on top.
7. Cook for 2-3 hours or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spicy Buffalo Crock Pot Chicken Meatballs
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy buffalo sauce and chicken meatballs, perfect for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner or party appetizer. With just 10 ingredients and minimal prep work, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place in crock pot.
4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Cheesy Crock Pot Meatball Casserole
This hearty casserole combines tender meatballs with creamy cheese and pasta in a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound frozen meatballs
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Place the meatballs in the crock pot. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine.
3. Add the cooked pasta, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese on top of the meatballs.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Honey Mustard Crock Pot Meatball Bites
Sweet and savory, these Honey Mustard Crock Pot Meatball Bites are a perfect combination of flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 12-15 meatball mix (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together crushed tomatoes, honey, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place meatball mix in the crock pot. Pour the tomato mixture over the meatballs, coating them evenly.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Serve with your favorite sides, like pasta, garlic bread, or a green salad. Enjoy!
Mediterranean Crock Pot Lamb Meatballs
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these tender lamb meatballs infused with the aroma of olives, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for a stress-free dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use wet hands to shape mixture into meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Place the meatballs in the crock pot. Add diced tomatoes and olives.
5. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread, pita chips, or over rice.
Cooking Time: 6 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Smoky Chipotle Crock Pot Meatball Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the richness of meatballs with the smokiness of chipotle peppers, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and place in the crock pot.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chipotle peppers, beef broth, tomato paste, and oregano to the crock pot.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Zesty Lemon Crock Pot Meatball Soup
Brighten up your mealtime with this flavorful and comforting soup, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 cup lemon zest
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat crock pot to low.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25). Place in the crock pot.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, red wine vinegar, and chopped parsley (if using). Stir gently to combine.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Maple Glazed Crock Pot Pork Meatballs
Sweet and savory, these maple glazed pork meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional meatball recipes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or party, they’re easy to make and require minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup ketchup
Instructions:
1. Preheat crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place meatballs in the crock pot. Pour in maple syrup and ketchup.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Herbed Crock Pot Meatball Stroganoff
A comforting and flavorful twist on classic beef stroganoff, this recipe combines tender meatballs with a rich and creamy sauce, all made easy in the crock pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) beef broth
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked egg noodles, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, dill, onion, and garlic. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and place in the crock pot.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, sour cream, and Dijon mustard. Pour over meatballs.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Szechuan Crock Pot Meatball Stir-Fry
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional meatball stir-fries, this recipe combines the convenience of a slow cooker with the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat crock pot to low.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well with hands or wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 12-15).
4. Place meatballs in crock pot. Cook for 2 hours.
5. Add peas and carrots to crock pot. Stir-fry for an additional 30 minutes, breaking up meatballs slightly as needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro (if using). Serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Savory Crock Pot Meatball Lasagna
Elevate your lasagna game with this savory crock pot recipe that combines tender meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and creamy ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the crock pot to low.
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs and place them in the crock pot with crushed tomatoes and marinara sauce.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
6. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
7. Assemble the lasagna by layering cooked noodles, meatball mixture, and cheese mixture in the crock pot.
8. Top with additional mozzarella cheese and cook on low for an additional 30 minutes.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Sweet Chili Crock Pot Meatball Skewers
Elevate your meatball game with this sweet and spicy twist on a classic appetizer. This recipe is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a delicious snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your crock pot to low.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Add the meatballs to the crock pot and pour the sweet chili mixture over them.
4. Place the skewers on top of the meatballs, leaving some space between each one.
5. Cook for 2-3 hours or until the meatballs are fully coated in the sauce and heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Garlic Butter Crock Pot Meatball Risotto
A comforting, creamy rice dish infused with the savory flavors of garlic butter and tender meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup garlic butter (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the crock pot to low.
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs (about 20).
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides; set aside.
4. Add garlic butter to the crock pot. Stir in Arborio rice, warmed chicken broth, and browned meatballs.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Classic Crock Pot Swedish Meatballs
This comforting dish is a staple of Scandinavian cuisine, perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering. With the help of your trusty crock pot, you’ll be enjoying tender and flavorful meatballs smothered in a rich beef broth-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat your crock pot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the crock pot.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and Dijon mustard. Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the crock pot.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as egg noodles or rice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your meal prep with these 19 scrumptious crock pot meatball recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic Swedish meatballs to sweet chili skewers, and from tangy cranberry to spicy buffalo, there’s something for everyone. These easy-to-make meals are ideal for hectic schedules and can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or comforting classics, these mouthwatering recipes will become staples in your kitchen.
