Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs Recipe

Are you looking for a simple yet flavorful meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than this amazing Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs recipe! Bursting with savory goodness, these meatballs are sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Plus, with the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other tasks while dinner practically cooks itself.

Why Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs?

When it comes to convenience and flavor, slow cooker turkey meatballs are a winning combination. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also simmer slowly in a rich tomato sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, using turkey instead of beef makes them a healthier option without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound of ground turkey
• 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving

Directions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. This step adds extra flavor to the meatballs before they go into the slow cooker.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In the slow cooker, combine the crushed tomatoes and sugar. Add the browned meatballs to the sauce, making sure they are evenly coated.
4. Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbling.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the turkey meatballs over cooked pasta or with crusty bread for dipping. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Use Lean Ground Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey to keep the meatballs moist without excess fat.
• Don’t Skip Browning: While it may be tempting to skip browning the meatballs, this step adds depth of flavor that can’t be achieved by simply simmering them in the slow cooker.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Add more garlic, herbs, or cheese for extra flavor.
• Make Ahead and Freeze: These meatballs freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep. Simply freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen solid. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs are a delicious and easy dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Give this recipe a try and discover a new favorite dish!

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