- Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
- In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes until the milk is absorbed. Add the ground meat, Parmesan, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Shape the Meatballs:
- With damp hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You should get around 20 to 24 meatballs.
- Brown the Meatballs (Optional):
- While this step is optional, browning the meatballs in a skillet over medium-high heat before adding them to the slow cooker can add extra flavor. Turn them occasionally until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. You do not need to cook them through.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In the slow cooker, combine the crushed tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf. Stir to mix well.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Gently place the meatballs into the sauce in the slow cooker. Spoon some sauce over the top of the meatballs to ensure they are covered.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and serve the meatballs and sauce over cooked pasta, in a sub sandwich with melted cheese, or with a side of bread. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan and chopped parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Sauce Variations: Feel free to customize the tomato sauce by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or by using your favorite store-bought sauce to save time.
- Freezing: These meatballs and sauce freeze well. Let them cool completely and store them in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in a slow cooker until warm.
This slow cooker meatball recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, serving as a comforting meal any day of the week with very little hands-on time required.