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Meatballs in crock pot.
AGT Editorial Team

24 EASY Crock Pot Appetizers - Meatball Sliders

5 from 1 vote
This easy crockpot recipe is for meatballs! They're is made with parmesan cheese and garlic. They are my version of Italian meatballs in gravy aka tomto sauce. Try this easy recipe to serve alone or as a mini slider appetizer.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Calories: 263
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3-4 thyme sprigs, chopped
  • 1 bunch basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • 3 slices white bread
  • 1 egg
  • ½ small onion, grated
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 9-10 slider buns

Equipment

  • 1 Crockpot

Method
 

  1. Add all ingredients (only HALF the parmesan cheese) to a large bowl and mix together well. The bread will soften and dissolve into the mixture.
  2. Shape into meatballs. I prefer mid-sized meatballs and end up aiming for 9-12.
    Meatballs.
  3. Option 1: For ultimate flavor: Sear meatballs over medium-high heat in a cast iron skillet, or any skillet, in ¼ cup of olive oil.
  4. Turn meatballs so they brown on all sides. I do this multiple times 360° to make sure I get even browning all around.
    Golden brown meatballs.
  5. Add meatballs to your crockpot when brown crust is acheived. Top with marinara sauce and cook on medium for 1-2 hours or until the center reaches 165°F.
  6. Option 2: Short on time: Add meatballs directly to a crockpot spaced out. Top with marinara sauce so they are fully submerged and cook on high for 2-3 hours or until the center reaches 165°F.
  7. Serve on mini rolls or Hawaiian bread. These meatball sliders are best served with parmesan cheese for topping!

Notes

  • Use can enjoy these meatballs with ANY sauce. I love RAO's tomato sauce. It's the BEST in my opinion.
  • The size of your meatballs will determine how long they take to cook. Ground beef should be cooked fully to 165 degrees F.