Crockpot Italian Meatballs

Looking for a hearty and delicious meal to warm up your family dinner? Look no further! These Crockpot Italian Meatballs are the perfect comfort food that is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 egg
• 1 jar marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and egg until well combined.
• Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
• Place meatballs in the crockpot and pour marinara sauce and water over them.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until meatballs are cooked through.
• Serve hot over pasta or with crusty bread.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 4 meatballs

Calories: 250

Total Fat: 15g

Saturated Fat: 6g

Cholesterol: 100mg

Sodium: 800mg

Carbohydrates: 10g

Fiber: 2g

Protein: 20g

Helpful Tips:

• Serve the meatballs with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
• For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
• Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the crockpot for extra nutrients.
• Freeze any leftovers for a quick and easy meal later on.

Expert Secrets:

• Make sure to sear the meatballs in a pan before placing them in the crockpot for added flavor.
• Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for a richer taste.
• Let the meatballs simmer in the marinara sauce for an extra hour for more tender meatballs.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices like oregano, basil, or fennel seeds for a unique flavor profile.
• Make a double batch and freeze half for an easy meal prep option.