Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 mouth-watering crockpot comfort classics! Whether you’re in the mood for classic Italian, spicy Mexican, or sweet and sour, our collection of savory meatball recipes has got you covered. From tender beef and pork to lamb and turkey, each bite is packed with rich flavor and satisfying texture.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey around the world, exploring the diverse flavors and traditions that define these beloved comfort foods. With ingredients like garlic, oregano, and Parmesan cheese, our recipes will transport you straight to Italy. But wait – there’s more! We’ve also got Swedish meatballs in creamy gravy, BBQ-glazed beauties, and so much more.
Stay tuned for the full list of 20 savory crockpot comfort classics and get ready to elevate your dinner game!
Classic Italian Crockpot Meatballs
Classic Italian Crockpot Meatballs: A Hearty and Flavorful Twist on a Classic
This recipe combines the tender juiciness of slow-cooked meatballs with the rich flavors of Italy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or party gathering, these classic Italian crockpot meatballs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat crockpot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Roll meat mixture into 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place meatballs in the crockpot. Pour crushed tomatoes over the top, followed by olive oil and oregano.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve with pasta, garlic bread, or as a sub sandwich filling.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Swedish Meatballs in Creamy Gravy
Experience the rich flavors of Sweden with this classic recipe for tender meatballs smothered in a creamy gravy. Serve with boiled potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed vegetables for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, flour, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
6. Add baked meatballs to the gravy and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Glazed Crockpot Meatballs
Transform meatballs into a sweet and tangy BBQ masterpiece with this easy crockpot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the meatballs in a crockpot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Pour the glaze over the meatballs.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Meatballs
Get ready for a sweet and savory twist on classic meatballs! This recipe combines the comfort of slow-cooked meat with the warmth of honey and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs in the slow cooker. Drizzle with honey and olive oil.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs
Sweet and savory, these Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs are a unique twist on classic meatball recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Pineapple wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. 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 on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare Teriyaki sauce by whisking together pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar in a small bowl.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with Teriyaki sauce during the last 2 minutes of baking.
7. Garnish with green onions and serve with additional pineapple wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Meatballs
Get ready to spice up your meatball game with these bold and flavorful Spicy Sriracha Meatballs! Perfect for snacking, appetizers, or as a topping for pasta or subs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, sriracha sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. 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 on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot and garnish with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Greek Lamb Meatballs with Tzatziki
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with these tender lamb meatballs served in a refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the tzatziki sauce by combining yogurt, cucumber, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir to combine.
6. Serve warm meatballs with chilled tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with the exotic flavors of Morocco! These spicy, aromatic meatballs are perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine meatball ingredients. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Elevate your snack game with these mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Meatballs! Made with chicken, buffalo sauce, and a hint of blue cheese crumbles, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or game-day gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 2 tablespoons blue cheese crumbles
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Add buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles; mix until well incorporated.
4. Use hands or small cookie scoop to form meat mixture into balls (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Stuffed Crockpot Meatballs
Elevate your comfort food game with these creamy, cheesy meatballs that simmer to perfection in the slow cooker. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 8-10 portions. Shape each portion into a ball and place in the slow cooker.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Sweet and Sour Meatballs
This classic recipe combines the savory flavor of meatballs with the tangy sweetness of a sweet and sour sauce, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the meatballs are cooking, heat the sweet and sour sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
7. Serve the meatballs with the warm sweet and sour sauce and garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Glazed Turkey Meatballs
Elevate your appetizer game with these bite-sized turkey meatballs smothered in a tangy cranberry glaze. Perfect for the holidays or any occasion that calls for a flavorful finger food.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix turkey, breadcrumbs, cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl until just combined.
3. Form into 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, mix cranberry sauce, honey, and Dijon mustard in a bowl to create the glaze.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with cranberry glaze.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes or until glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Meatballs
Elevate your pasta dishes or snack game with these mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Meatballs. With their tender texture and bold flavors, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, 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 (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and gently roll them to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite pasta dish, marinara sauce, or as a snack on their own. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Mexican Chipotle Meatballs
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with these spicy meatballs, smothered in a tangy chipotle tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chipotle tomato sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, chipotle pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
Chipotle Tomato Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine ingredients in a saucepan and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until slightly thickened.
Asian Ginger Soy Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this Asian-inspired recipe that combines the savory flavors of ginger and soy sauce. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, panko breadcrumbs, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, and egg. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Turkey and Spinach Meatballs
Herbed Turkey and Spinach Meatballs Recipe
These flavorful meatballs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering. With the combination of turkey, spinach, and herbs, you’ll be delighted by their taste and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until a cohesive mixture forms.
4. Use your hands or a spoon to shape into 20-25 meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little olive oil.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Crockpot Meatballs
Bacon-Wrapped Crockpot Meatballs: A Savory Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Transform your favorite meatball recipe into a mouthwatering, easy-to-make dish by wrapping it with crispy bacon and slow-cooking it in the crockpot. This recipe is perfect for a stress-free dinner party or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat the crockpot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Wrap each meatball (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter) with a slice of bacon, securing it with toothpicks if needed.
4. Place the wrapped meatballs in the crockpot and pour in the marinara sauce.
5. Cook for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
Elevate your meatball game with this creative recipe that combines the flavors of Italy with a creamy twist. Pesto and mozzarella-stuffed meatballs are perfect for a dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Flatten each meatball slightly and place a tablespoon of pesto in the center. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Fold the meatballs over to enclose the filling and secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Chicken Meatballs
Elevate your dinner game with these flavorful and moist chicken meatballs infused with the brightness of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano. 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 on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle egg wash over the meatballs for a golden glaze.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs in Marinara
This recipe transforms humble lentils into tender and flavorful “meatballs” that simmer in a rich marinara sauce, perfect for pasta, subs, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned and firm to the touch.
5. Simmer marinara sauce over low heat while the meatballs bake.
6. Add baked meatballs to the marinara sauce and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with these 20 savory meatball recipes! From classic Italian and Swedish meatballs to BBQ-glazed, teriyaki-pineapple, and sriracha-spiced, there’s something for everyone. These comforting crockpot classics are perfect for busy days, parties, or cozy nights in. Try them out: Classic Italian Crockpot Meatballs, Sw… (continues)
