Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Cheese Stuffed Meatballs and Sauce Recipe
When you sink your teeth into these Slow Cooker Cheese Stuffed Meatballs, you’ll immediately understand why they’re a family favorite. The combination of juicy beef and pork creates a flavor explosion, while the gooey mozzarella hidden inside takes it to the next level.
I love how effortless this recipe is—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. Plus, the aroma that fills the house is absolutely mouthwatering.
It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Whether served over spaghetti or enjoyed on their own, these meatballs always leave everyone asking for seconds.
Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your home, too!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Cheese Stuffed Meatballs and Sauce
When it comes to making Slow Cooker Cheese Stuffed Meatballs, the ingredients are key to achieving that mouthwatering, comforting dish everyone loves. You’ll be amazed at how simple the ingredients are, yet they come together to create something truly spectacular.
Imagine tender meatballs filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, all simmered in rich pasta sauce. It’s like a big hug in a bowl. So, let’s gather all the goodies you’ll need to make this delightful meal.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 4 tablespoons fresh parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 – 1 1/2 cup seasoned dry bread crumbs
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, divided into 12 pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 (24 ounce) jars pasta sauce
- 2 lbs cooked spaghetti
Now, let’s talk about some of these ingredients. Fresh herbs like basil and parsley make a big difference in flavor, so if you can, try to use fresh instead of dried.
And when it comes to the cheese, oh boy, fresh mozzarella is a game-changer. It adds that melty goodness that makes each bite so luxurious. If you’re someone who loves a bit of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes to the sauce or meat mixture.
Just keep in mind that the type of breadcrumbs you choose can affect the texture, so go for seasoned ones for added flavor. This dish is all about layering flavors, and with the right ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to meatball perfection.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cheese Stuffed Meatballs and Sauce
When it comes time to make your Slow Cooker Cheese Stuffed Meatballs and Sauce, the first thing you’ll want to do is gather all those wonderful ingredients we talked about earlier. Grab your mixing bowl because you’ll be combining 1 lb of ground beef with 1 lb of ground pork. Yes, it’s a meat lover’s dream!
To that, add 4 tablespoons of grated fresh parmesan cheese, 3 large eggs, and season it with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Don’t forget the flavor boosters: toss in 2 finely minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh basil, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano. It’s like a mini garden explosion in your bowl.
Now, here’s where things get a bit messy, but in the best way possible. Start adding 1 to 1 1/2 cups of seasoned dry bread crumbs, half a cup at a time. You want the mixture to be sticky but manageable enough to form into meatballs.
Speaking of meatballs, use your hands (yep, it’s okay to get a little dirty) to shape about 12 balls, and don’t forget to create a little hole in the center of each one. This is where the magic happens – pop in a piece of fresh mozzarella cheese, then pinch the meat together to seal it up.
After that, heat up a drizzle of olive oil (3 tablespoons) in a large sauté pan over medium heat and brown those meatballs. Not too long, just until they’re golden on the outside. Toss them into your slow cooker using a slotted spoon.
Now, for the pièce de résistance: pour in two jars of pasta sauce over the meatballs. It’s like giving them a cozy blanket to simmer under for about 5 hours on LOW.
While that’s happening, you can kick back, relax, and maybe even sneak a meatball or two if you’re feeling cheeky. When it’s time to serve, plate up some cooked spaghetti (about 2 lbs) and ladle those saucy meatballs right on top.
Your family and friends will be in awe, and you might just earn yourself a reputation as the meatball master. Enjoy the cheers and compliments, and remember – it’s all about the love you put into it (and, of course, that gooey mozzarella).
Slow Cooker Cheese Stuffed Meatballs and Sauce Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Slow Cooker Cheese Stuffed Meatballs and Sauce, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For a different flavor, try swapping ground beef and pork for ground turkey or chicken. You can also experiment with different cheeses—pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while ricotta offers a creamy texture.
Instead of traditional pasta sauce, consider using pesto or a homemade marinara for a fresh twist. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can replace basil and parsley for a unique taste.
Finally, if you’re avoiding gluten, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even oats. These simple changes can transform your meatballs into a whole new dish!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Cheese Stuffed Meatballs and Sauce
Looking for the perfect sides to complement your Slow Cooker Cheese Stuffed Meatballs and Sauce?
I love serving these meatballs over a bed of al dente spaghetti, but you can also pair them with garlic bread for that extra crunch and flavor.
A simple side salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a revitalizing touch.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus are fantastic options.
Don’t forget a sprinkle of parmesan over everything for that cheesy goodness!
For a comforting finish, you might even serve them with polenta.
Trust me; these sides will elevate your meal and impress your family or guests!
Additional Tips & Notes
Pairing your Slow Cooker Cheese Stuffed Meatballs and Sauce with delicious sides sets the stage for an unforgettable meal.
To elevate your dish, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color.
If you want to experiment, try mixing different cheeses in the meatballs for a unique twist.
For leftovers, store meatballs and sauce separately to maintain their texture. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave, and they’ll taste just as good!
Finally, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your liking; everyone’s palate is different, and this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate your preferences.
Enjoy!