Just when you thought meatballs couldn’t get any better, along comes this crockpot version slathered in garlic butter. It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights and lazy weekends alike.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooking process ensures the meatballs are incredibly tender and infused with garlic butter goodness.
- Using a crockpot means minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for those who love great food but hate the fuss.
- Garlic butter sauce elevates the humble meatball to a dish that’s worthy of any dinner table, yet it’s surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (for the sauce)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Equipment Needed
- Crockpot
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined to avoid tough meatballs. Tip: For extra flavor, let the mixture sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before forming into meatballs.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls, ensuring they’re compact enough to hold together but not too tight. You should end up with about 20 meatballs.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then stir in the chopped parsley. Tip: For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream.
Step 4: Cook in the Crockpot
Place the meatballs in the crockpot and pour the garlic butter sauce over them. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the meatballs are cooked through. Tip: For a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, serve the meatballs hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. They’re perfect over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to take their crockpot garlic butter meatballs to the next level, consider browning the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot. This adds a delicious crust and enhances the flavor. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a unique twist to the dish. Lastly, for a healthier version, turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a kick.
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in shredded mozzarella into the meatball mixture for gooey centers.
- Herb Infused: Incorporate fresh basil or oregano into the meatballs for an herby flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce separately, store them in the fridge, and then combine in the crockpot when ready to cook. Just add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.
Can I freeze the cooked meatballs? Yes, these meatballs freeze beautifully. Just cool them completely, then store in an airtight container with some of the sauce. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with these meatballs? While they’re fantastic on their own, serving them over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with a side of vegetables turns them into a hearty meal.
Summary
These crockpot garlic butter meatballs are a fuss-free, flavor-packed dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Perfect for any occasion, they’re a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.
