This easy crockpot spaghetti and meatballs dish combines tender pasta and juicy meatballs simmered in a tasty sauce. It’s perfect for busy days when you still want a delicious meal!
I love that you can just toss everything in the crockpot and let it cook while you relax. Plus, there’s nothing like the smell of dinner cooking all day long—it’s pure comfort! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the primary protein in the meatballs. If you prefer a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead. They work well and taste great!
Breadcrumbs: I use plain breadcrumbs to bind the meatballs. If you’re gluten-free, substitute with almond or gluten-free breadcrumbs. For extra flavor, you can use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs.
Marinara Sauce: A jar of your favorite marinara works best. You can also make your own or use homemade tomato sauce for a fresher taste. If you like some heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Spaghetti: Stick with traditional spaghetti for this recipe. You can swap it out for whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zucchini noodles if you prefer a lighter option!
How Do You Keep Meatballs Tender?
Keeping meatballs juicy and tender is all about the mixing and cooking method. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix until just combined; overmixing can make them dense.
- Shape them gently, without packing tightly.
- The slow cooking in the sauce helps them stay moist. Make sure to check they are cooked through without drying out.
This way, you get soft, flavorful meatballs every time!
Crockpot Spaghetti And Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar (24 oz/680 g) marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup water or beef broth
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti pasta (uncooked)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 6-7 hours of cooking time on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH. The slow cooker does all the work while you enjoy your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Once your mixture is ready, shape it into meatballs that are about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a plate or tray as you finish shaping them. This will help you keep track of how many you’ve made!
3. Add Sauce to the Crockpot:
Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of your crockpot. Then, carefully place the meatballs in a single layer on top of the sauce. Once they’re in place, pour the remaining marinara sauce over them. Don’t forget to add 1 cup of water or beef broth to help cook the pasta later!
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are nice and cooked through. The slow cooking will keep everything tender and flavorful!
5. Add the Spaghetti:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, break the uncooked spaghetti in half and gently place it on top of the meatballs and sauce in the crockpot. Press the pasta down to submerge as much of it as possible in the sauce.
6. Cook the Spaghetti:
Cover the crockpot again and switch it to HIGH for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the spaghetti is tender. Give it a stir halfway through to prevent sticking.
7. Serve with Garnish:
Once everything is cooked to perfection, serve your spaghetti and meatballs topped with a sprinkling of extra chopped parsley and some grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy this comforting, hands-off meal!
Bon appétit! Enjoy every delicious bite of this crockpot wonder!
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs! Just add them directly to the crockpot without thawing. They may require an additional hour of cooking time to ensure they are heated through completely.
How Do I Thicken the Sauce if It’s Too Runny?
If you find the sauce is too watery, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and it will help thicken it up!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a meat alternative like lentils, chickpeas, or store-bought plant-based meatballs. You can also add more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. Enjoy your second round of this tasty meal!
