This Crockpot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a warm and comforting dish that’s super easy to make! Just toss your meatballs and sauce into the crockpot, and let it do all the work.
My favorite part? Everything cooks together and fills your home with a lovely aroma. I like to serve it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I enjoy using lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you want to reduce fat further, turkey or chicken can be great substitutes. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives!
Breadcrumbs: I usually go for plain breadcrumbs, but you can swap them for panko for extra crunch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a perfect alternative for those with dietary restrictions.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor, but you can use a pre-grated version if you’re short on time. Nutritional yeast is a tasty dairy-free substitute that also adds a cheesy flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is a huge time-saver! If you want a homemade option, simply blend canned tomatoes with garlic, herbs, and a pinch of sugar. For a spicier kick, try adding red pepper flakes!
Spaghetti: While I recommend traditional spaghetti, you could use zucchini noodles or another pasta alternative for a lighter meal. It cooks similarly, making it a fun twist!
How Can I Shape Perfect Meatballs?
Shaping meatballs can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it right every time! The key is to handle the meat mixture gently; too much handling will make them tough.
- Use an ice cream scoop or your hands to form even meatballs, aiming for about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
- Keep a bowl of water nearby to wet your hands, which helps prevent sticking.
- Space them evenly in the crockpot. Don’t overcrowd, as this helps them cook evenly!
Following these steps will give you beautifully shaped meatballs that are tender and juicy, perfect for your spaghetti!
Crockpot Spaghetti And Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 jar (24 oz/680 g) marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz/411 g) diced tomatoes (optional, for extra sauce texture)
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or pasta of choice
- Additional Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Crockpot Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and then 6-7 hours to cook on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing the ingredients, shaping the meatballs, and cooking the pasta just before serving. Perfect for a cozy evening without too much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently, making sure everything is well combined. Just be careful not to over-mix, or the meatballs can become tough!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Once the mixture is ready, use your hands to shape it into meatballs about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. You should end up with roughly 16-20 meatballs. Keep the size consistent so they cook evenly!
3. Load the Crockpot:
Place all the meatballs into the crockpot. Then, pour the marinara sauce and the can of diced tomatoes (if you’re using them) over the meatballs, making sure they are all nicely covered in sauce.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The meatballs should be cooked through and tender by the time you’re ready to serve.
5. Cook the Pasta:
About 20 minutes before you plan to serve, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When done, drain the spaghetti well.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
You have two options for serving! You can either toss the cooked spaghetti with some of the sauce from the crockpot or plate the spaghetti first and then spoon the meatballs and sauce over the top. Either way, it’s delicious!
7. Garnish:
For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped parsley and more Parmesan cheese on top before digging in. Enjoy your hearty, flavorful Crockpot Spaghetti and Meatballs!
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen meatballs, simply add them directly to the crockpot without thawing. Just increase the cooking time by about an hour on low, or 30 minutes on high to ensure they heat through properly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To make this dish healthier, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, whole grain or gluten-free pasta, and add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to the sauce. This adds nutrients and bulk without too many calories!
Can I Prepare This Meal the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Prepare the meatball mixture and shape the meatballs ahead of time. Store them in the fridge overnight, then place them in the crockpot in the morning with the sauce for a hassle-free dinner.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying out. Enjoy them as a quick lunch or dinner!
