Meatballs And Gravy Slow Cooker Recipe (Guide)

ByAmy

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm, hearty plate of meatballs smothered in rich, savory gravy. It’s the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside out, perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or anytime you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its flavor but in the simplicity of preparation-especially when you use a slow cooker. With minimal effort, you can let your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting, allowing flavors to meld together beautifully while you go about your day. By the time the meal is ready, your home will be filled with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone at the table eager to dive in.

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Meatballs And Gravy Slow Cooker Recipe

meatballs and gravy slow cooker recipe

This slow cooker meatballs and gravy recipe takes classic comfort food to a whole new level. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs, perfectly cooked and infused with flavors from a rich, savory gravy that’s made directly in the slow cooker. The result is a dish that’s ready to serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or even egg noodles. The best part? It’s almost entirely hands-off, giving you plenty of time to focus on other tasks-or simply relax.

Ingredient List

Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect slow cooker meatballs and gravy:

For The Meatballs

  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional for a herby kick)

For The Gravy

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream for extra richness

Instruction Guide

Let’s walk through this step by step. Don’t worry-if you follow this guide, your meatballs will come out tender, flavorful, and perfectly coated in gravy.

  1. Prepare The Meatballs

    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and oregano.
    • Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined-overmixing can make meatballs tough.
    • Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.

  2. Brown The Meatballs (Optional But Recommended)

    • Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
    • Quickly brown the meatballs on all sides. Don’t cook through-they’ll finish in the slow cooker. Browning adds flavor and a beautiful color.

  3. Make The Gravy

    • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
    • Slowly whisk in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    • Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

  4. Slow Cook Everything

    • Place the meatballs in the slow cooker and pour the gravy over them.
    • Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

  5. Optional Finishing Touch

    • Stir in heavy cream before serving for a richer, silkier gravy.

  6. Serve

    • Ladle the meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, and sprinkle extra Parmesan or fresh parsley on top.

Ingredient Swaps

Life happens, and sometimes you don’t have every ingredient on hand. Here are some easy swaps:

  • Ground Meat: Turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work beautifully.
  • Breadcrumbs: Use crushed crackers, panko, or oats for a different texture.
  • Parmesan: Any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano, or omit for a dairy-free option.
  • Milk: Any plant-based milk or even water will help bind the meatballs.
  • Beef Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth can replace beef broth without compromising flavor.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Soy sauce or tamari for a vegetarian version.

Helpful Tips

  • Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker: If you have too many meatballs, they might not cook evenly. Cook in batches if needed.
  • Make ahead: Meatballs can be prepped a day ahead and stored in the fridge, making weeknight dinners effortless.
  • Consistency matters: If the gravy is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir in at the end. If too thick, add a splash of broth.
  • Flavor boost: A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar in the gravy adds depth.

Customization Ideas

Want to make this recipe uniquely yours? Here are some fun variations:

  • Cheesy Surprise: Add small cubes of cheese inside each meatball for a molten, cheesy center.
  • Herb Explosion: Mix fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the meatballs.
  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy.
  • Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers to the gravy for extra nutrition.
  • International Twist: Experiment with different spices-Italian seasoning for an Italian vibe or smoked paprika and cumin for a smoky, Spanish-inspired dish.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Meatballs For A Slow Cooker Meatballs And Gravy Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen meatballs directly in the slow cooker. They will cook evenly in the gravy, but you should increase the cooking time by 30-45 minutes to ensure they are fully heated through.

What Type Of Meat Is Best For Homemade Meatballs In This Recipe?

Ground beef, pork, turkey, or a combination of beef and pork work well. Beef provides rich flavor, pork adds tenderness, and turkey is a leaner option. Choose based on your preference for flavor and fat content.

How Do I Prevent The Meatballs From Falling Apart In The Slow Cooker?

To keep meatballs intact, avoid overmixing the meat mixture and use a binder like egg and breadcrumbs. Browning the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker can also help maintain their shape.

Can I Make The Gravy Ahead Of Time?

Yes, the gravy can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply add it to the slow cooker with the meatballs and cook until heated through.

How Long Should I Cook Meatballs And Gravy In A Slow Cooker?

For homemade meatballs, cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. For frozen meatballs, cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on slow cooker size and model.

Can I Thicken The Gravy In The Slow Cooker?

Yes, if the gravy is too thin, mix a small amount of cornstarch or flour with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking. This will help thicken the gravy without altering the flavor.

What Side Dishes Go Well With Slow Cooker Meatballs And Gravy?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or steamed vegetables. The gravy pairs especially well with starchy sides that can absorb the sauce.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats for the meatballs and ensure the gravy is thickened with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour. Check that any store-bought sauces or seasoning mixes are gluten-free.

Is It Safe To Leave Meatballs In The Slow Cooker On Warm For Several Hours?

Once cooking is complete, you can leave the slow cooker on the ’warm’ setting for 1-2 hours. However, prolonged warming can affect texture and flavor, so it’s best to serve soon after cooking.

Can I Freeze Leftovers From This Recipe?

Yes, cooled meatballs and gravy can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in a slow cooker on low until thoroughly warmed.

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