Description
Delicious Crockpot Stuffed Meatballs simmered in a rich homemade tomato sauce, filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, and garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese. This effortless slow-cooked recipe makes a perfect comforting meal with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 package refrigerated meatballs (8 total)
- 3 sticks mozzarella cheese, each cut into thirds
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, for garnish
- Freshly shredded Parmesan, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: Combine crushed tomatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh basil, Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt in the crockpot. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.
- Stuff the meatballs: Take each refrigerated meatball and carefully create a small cavity in the center, then insert a piece of mozzarella cheese. Repeat this process with all the meatballs so each is filled with cheese.
- Add meatballs to sauce: Place the stuffed meatballs into the crockpot and submerge them fully in the prepared tomato sauce to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on high heat for 2 hours, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, sprinkle fresh basil and freshly shredded Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and presentation. Enjoy your hearty and cheesy crockpot stuffed meatballs!
Notes
- You can substitute fresh mozzarella for more authenticity if preferred.
- If using frozen meatballs, increase cooking time by 30-45 minutes or until heated through.
- Serve with pasta, crusty bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: crockpot stuffed meatballs, slow cooker meatballs, stuffed mozzarella meatballs, Italian meatballs recipe, easy crockpot dinner
