Description
These Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Meatballs are an easy and quick recipe packed with simple ingredients and rich flavor and they are one of the best healthy comfort food ideas for busy days and gatherings. This simple dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and game nights and holiday parties and potlucks and family meals when you need something warm satisfying and full of buttery garlic goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 4 minced garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- I combine the ground beef with breadcrumbs and egg and minced garlic and salt and pepper and I mix everything gently until the texture becomes slightly sticky and evenly blended with small uneven chunks still visible.
- I scoop portions of the mixture and roll them into uneven round meatballs and I place them loosely apart so they keep their shape with slight cracks on the surface.
- I place the meatballs into the slow cooker and I scatter butter pieces and extra garlic on top and the butter begins to soften slightly as it touches the meat.
- I let the meatballs cook slowly and I watch as they release juices and the butter melts completely and forms a glossy sauce while the meatballs turn from pink to browned on the outside.
- I sprinkle chopped parsley over the cooked meatballs and I gently move them around so the sauce coats every piece with a final fresh color contrast.
Notes
Pro Tips:
- Use fresh garlic instead of powder for a stronger flavor and a more aromatic sauce. It really changes the overall taste and gives a homemade feel.
- Do not overcrowd the meatballs in the cooker because they need space to cook evenly and brown slightly. Spacing helps the sauce coat better.
- Choose a higher fat ground beef for juicier meatballs and richer texture. Lean beef can dry out during slow cooking.
- Stir gently near the end instead of early on to keep meatballs intact and avoid breaking them apart while they cook.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within three days. Reheat gently to keep the meatballs tender and to maintain the sauce texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg