Slow Cooker Spaghetti and Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is a hassle-free way to enjoy a hearty, classic Italian meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just throw the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work. The meatballs come out juicy and tender, while the marinara sauce simmers to perfection. It’s a great dish for large gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prepping. The flavors are rich and savory, and the convenience of using the slow cooker makes it a go-to recipe for any busy cook.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (16 oz) package spaghetti
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them in the bottom of your slow cooker.
3. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, making sure they are all covered with sauce.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
5. About 15 minutes before serving, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions.
6. Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked spaghetti. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people and takes approximately 15 minutes to prep and 6-8 hours to cook on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker. The spaghetti will take about 10-12 minutes to cook once the meatballs are ready.

Variations

• Turkey Meatballs: For a lighter version, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian: You can make vegetarian meatballs using a plant-based meat substitute or a mixture of lentils and vegetables.
• Cheesy Meatballs: Add a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each meatball for a cheesy surprise.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the meatballs and sauce in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you’re reheating from the fridge, you can also place the meatballs and sauce back into the slow cooker on low for about 30 minutes to warm through.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Slow Cooker Spaghetti and Meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze both the meatballs and sauce for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

2. Can I use store-bought meatballs for this recipe?

While homemade meatballs offer the best flavor, you can certainly use frozen or pre-cooked meatballs for a quicker version of the recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

3. How do I prevent my meatballs from falling apart?

Make sure to mix the ingredients gently and not overwork the meat mixture. Also, don’t skip the breadcrumbs and egg—they help bind the meatballs together.

4. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, you can add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

5. Can I cook the spaghetti in the slow cooker with the meatballs?

It’s best to cook the spaghetti separately, as pasta can become mushy in the slow cooker. However, you can add uncooked pasta to the slow cooker in the last 30 minutes of cooking, but make sure to monitor it closely.

6. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs a day ahead and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This makes the meal even easier to assemble on the day you’re serving it.

7. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it uncovered for 30 minutes on the stovetop, or stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste while cooking the meatballs.

8. Can I use a different pasta with this recipe?

While spaghetti is traditional, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine, depending on your preference.

9. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade marinara sauce recipe, feel free to use it instead of store-bought sauce.

10. How can I make this recipe more flavorful?

To boost the flavor, try adding extra herbs like thyme, rosemary, or a splash of red wine to the sauce. You can also season the meatballs with extra garlic or onion powder.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Spaghetti and Meatballs is a foolproof, family-friendly meal that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. The slow cooker makes the cooking process easy, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just your family, this classic meal is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!