Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Meatballs in Hearty Tomato Parmesan Sauce
Get ready to savor a comfort food classic with these tender Italian sausage meatballs slow-cooked in a rich, savory tomato Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday dinner, this easy crockpot recipe is loaded with flavor-packed Italian spices and pairs perfectly with pasta, garlic bread, or even on a hoagie roll for a mouthwatering meatball sub!
Ingredients:
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot, casings removed)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for browning, optional)
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions:
1. Mix the meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently just until everything is incorporated.
2. Shape: Roll into 1½-inch meatballs. Avoid overworking the mixture for the juiciest results.
3. Optional browning: For added depth of flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high and brown meatballs for 3–4 minutes on all sides.
4. Build the sauce: In your slow cooker, stir together crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, remaining Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and sugar.
5. Cook low and slow: Nestle the meatballs gently into the sauce. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
6. Serve & enjoy: Garnish with extra Parmesan and chopped parsley. Best served over spaghetti, zoodles, or with crusty Italian bread!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hours (low)
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Calories: 340 kcal per serving
Servings: 4–6
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