Slow Cooker Balsamic Meatballs (Printable Version)

Tender meatballs simmered in tangy balsamic glaze, ideal for sharing or serving with sides.

# What You'll Need:

→ For the Meatballs

01 - 1 pound ground beef
02 - 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1 large egg
05 - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
06 - Salt, to taste
07 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ For the Balsamic Glaze

08 - 1 cup marinara sauce
09 - 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
10 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar

# Directions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly blend ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until evenly incorporated.
02 - Form the mixture into even, bite-sized balls and carefully arrange them in an even layer inside the slow cooker insert.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together marinara sauce, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is uniform.
04 - Pour the balsamic glaze evenly over the arranged meatballs. Cover and cook on low setting for 4 to 5 hours, or until meatballs are thoroughly cooked and tender.
05 - Carefully transfer the meatballs and glaze to a serving platter. Serve warm, accompanied by cooked pasta or fresh crusty bread if desired.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Relies on easy ingredients found in most kitchens
  • Slow cooker does all the heavy lifting for you
  • Versatile enough for appetizers lunches or hearty mains
02 -
  • High in protein and incredibly satisfying
  • Fantastic made ahead for gatherings or quick dinners
  • Balsamic glaze adds a unique twist you will crave again and again
03 -
  • Mix the meatball ingredients just until combined to keep them tender
  • Let your slow cooker do its thing Resist the urge to peek or stir or they may break apart
  • For deeper flavor brown meatballs in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker but honestly they come out delicious even if you skip this step
  • I always keep a stash of good balsamic on hand after trying this recipe because a splash will also liven up roasted vegetables or even salad No one ever regrets extra sauce so double it if you are serving a crowd
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