Self Saucing Meatballs in the Slow Cooker
Try this Self Saucing Meatballs in the Slow Cooker recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Self Saucing Meatballs in the Slow Cooker recipe, or contribute your own.
- Carbohydrate 0.24795 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.00375 g
- Fiber 0.0157499992847443 g
- Protein 0.0477 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0006675 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (126g)
- Sodium 0.1275 mg
- Sugar 0.232200000715256 g
- Trans Fat 0.0011325 g
- Calories 1 calories
Step-by-step
- Oil the inside of the slow cooker dish so the meatballs won't stick.
- Place the quartered onions, whole garlic and bacon in the food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add the ground/mince meat, herbs and egg. Pulse until smooth.
- Remove the blade and roll a generous spoon of the mixture into meatballs, placing each one into the slow cooker dish.
- Pour over the meatballs, the tinned chopped tomatoes. You can use fresh tomatoes but the tinned tomatoes tend to work better and produce a thick sauce.
- I cook on LOW for 6-10 hours or HIGH for 4-6 hours. But be guided by your own experience with your own slow cooker instructions as they all vary.
My Go-To Weeknight Dinner: Self-Saucing Slow Cooker Meatballs
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Juggling work, kids' activities, and trying to maintain a semblance of a social life leaves little room for elaborate cooking. That's why I rely heavily on my slow cooker – my culinary lifesaver! And among my favorite slow cooker recipes is this unbelievably simple and delicious self-saucing meatball recipe. It's a true weeknight winner, providing a hearty and satisfying meal without demanding hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal prep time, and the slow cooker does all the hard work. You simply throw everything in, set it, and forget it! Hours later, you're greeted with tender, juicy meatballs swimming in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. It's the perfect comfort food, especially on those chilly evenings when all you want is something warm and comforting. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water! I often serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce. The kids love it, my husband loves it, and even *I* love it – and that's saying something considering my picky palate.
What makes this recipe so special?
Beyond its simplicity and ease of preparation, the flavor profile of these meatballs is truly outstanding. The combination of herbs – rosemary, thyme, oregano, marjoram, and sage – creates a complex and aromatic sauce that elevates the entire dish. The bacon adds a subtle smoky depth, perfectly complementing the richness of the beef. And the slow cooking process ensures that the meatballs are incredibly tender and juicy, practically melting in your mouth.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, too. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combination. You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or celery, for extra flavor and nutrients. I've even been known to sneak in some finely chopped mushrooms for a richer, earthier taste, and the kids never notice!
More than just a meal, it's a time-saver.
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adjust the cooking time depending on your schedule. Need a quick dinner? Cook it on high for a shorter period. Have a longer day? Set it on low and let it simmer throughout the day. The slow cooker's versatility makes it perfect for busy weeknights or even lazy weekends. The beauty is that it essentially cooks itself, leaving you free to focus on other things. It’s the perfect answer for those who want a delicious, homemade meal without the hassle.
Beyond the dinner table…
I often find myself making a double batch of these meatballs, storing half for later. The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making them a fantastic choice for meal prepping. They’re also perfect for packing in lunches for work or school. The sauce thickens beautifully as it cools, so you can enjoy them cold or reheated. The possibilities are endless!
So, if you're looking for a simple, flavorful, and convenient dinner recipe, look no further. Give these self-saucing slow cooker meatballs a try – your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!
