This delightful crockpot turkey meatballs recipe is perfect for those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs. Utilizing lean ground turkey and slow-cooking in a rich tomato base, these meatballs are tender, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare.
If you're planning to make this recipe, you might need to pick up a few specific items from the supermarket. Panko is a type of Japanese breadcrumb known for its light, airy texture. Fresh garlic cloves and a large sweet onion add rich flavor, while Parmesan cheese gives a savory depth. Ensure you get crushed tomatoes for the sauce base.
Ingredients For Crockpot Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Large egg: Helps bind the meatballs together.
Lean ground turkey: A healthier alternative to beef, providing a lean source of protein.
Panko: Japanese breadcrumbs that add a light, crispy texture.
Olive oil: Used for browning the meatballs and adding flavor.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, umami flavor.
Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic provides a pungent and aromatic flavor.
Oregano: Dried herb that adds a robust, earthy flavor.
Basil: Adds a sweet and slightly peppery flavor.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
Ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity.
Sweet onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
Crushed tomatoes: Forms the rich, tomato-based sauce.
Fresh basil: Used as a garnish for a fresh, aromatic touch.
One reader, Eimile Osborn says:
This crockpot turkey meatballs recipe is fantastic! The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, and the slow cooking makes them incredibly tender. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. My family loved it, and the leftovers were just as good. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Crockpot Turkey Meatballs Recipe
How to beat an egg: Use a fork or whisk to mix the egg until the yolk and white are fully combined. How to mix ingredients: Combine the ground turkey, panko, olive oil, parmesan, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until just mixed to avoid overworking the meat. How to roll meatballs: Shape the mixture into balls slightly larger than a golf ball using your hands. How to slice an onion: Cut the onion into thin slices. How to brown meatballs: Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the meatballs for about 1 minute on each side until lightly browned. How to layer ingredients in a crockpot: Place onion slices at the bottom, add a can of crushed tomatoes, then layer browned meatballs, and top with another can of tomatoes. How to store leftovers: Keep the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
How To Make Crockpot Turkey Meatballs
Our generously spiced, tender, and savory turkey meatballs recipe can be easily prepared with the basic meatball ingredients and cooked in a crockpot!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1large egg
- 1lblean ground turkey,97-98%
- 1lblean ground turkey,92-93%
- ⅔cupPanko
- 3tbspolive oil
- ¼cupParmesan cheese,grated
- 3garlic cloves,minced
- 2tsporegano,dried
- 2tspbasil,dried
- 1tspsalt
- ½tspground black pepper,fresh
- 1large sweet onion,sliced
- 28oztomatoes,(2 cans) crushed
- basil,fresh, chopped, optional, to garnish
Instructions
-
Beat the egg in a large mixing bowl. Add the ground turkey, Panko, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, parmesan, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything up just so the ingredients are combined. Avoid overmixing.
-
Roll into desired size balls. (Or slightly larger than a golf ball.) Place all rolled meatballs on a large baking sheet.
-
Place onion slices in the bottom of the crockpot, topped with 1 can of crushed tomatoes.
-
Coat a large skillet with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and bring to medium-high heat. Lightly brown the meatballs (only 6 to 8 meatballs at a time) for about 1 minute on each side.
-
Layer the meatballs into the crockpot while browning each batch. Once all browned meatballs have been added to the crockpot, pour the remaining can of tomatoes on top.
-
Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 6.5 hours.
-
Serve with pasta, as meatball subs, plain, etc. Top with a little chopped fresh basil.
-
Store leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Recipe Notes
- To Freeze or Make-Ahead, prepare the meatballs through the browning step. Cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day or freeze up to 2 months. Add to the crockpot and cook as directed. Or you may fully prepare 1 day in advance, refrigerate, then cook in the crockpot on low for 45 minutes or until warmed. Freeze cooked meatballs in sauce for up to 2 months. Defrost before reheating as desired.
Nutrition
- Calories: 94.20kcal
- Fat: 5.11g
- Saturated Fat: 1.28g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.33g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.05g
- Carbohydrates: 3.87g
- Fiber: 0.64g
- Sugar: 1.74g
- Protein: 8.52g
- Cholesterol: 33.49mg
- Sodium: 142.69mg
- Calcium: 37.44mg
- Potassium: 188.29mg
- Iron: 0.64mg
- Vitamin A: 27.06µg
- Vitamin C: 5.27mg
Technique Tip for Crockpot Turkey Meatballs Recipe
To ensure your meatballs hold together well and have a uniform texture, avoid overmixing the ground turkey mixture. Overmixing can make the meatballs dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and use a light touch when forming the meatballs.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Turkey Meatballs in a Crockpot
Prepare ingredients ahead: Chop the onion and mince the garlic the night before to save time on prep day.
Use pre-made breadcrumbs: Opt for store-bought panko to cut down on preparation time.
Batch cook meatballs: Double the meatball recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.
Skip browning: If you're in a hurry, skip browning the meatballs and place them directly in the crockpot.
Pre-mix spices: Combine oregano, basil, salt, and pepper in a small container ahead of time.
Substitute Ingredients For Crockpot Turkey Meatballs Recipe
1 large egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes. This acts as a binding agent similar to an egg.
1 lb lean ground turkey - Substitute with lean ground chicken: Ground chicken has a similar texture and flavor profile to ground turkey.
⅔ cup panko - Substitute with regular breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs can provide a similar texture and binding quality.
3 tbsp olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
¼ cup parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor and is a good option for those avoiding dairy.
3 garlic cloves - Substitute with 1 tsp garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor when fresh garlic is not available.
2 tsp oregano - Substitute with 1 tsp thyme: Thyme has a slightly different but complementary flavor to oregano.
2 tsp basil - Substitute with 2 tsp parsley: Parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can complement the dish.
1 tsp salt - Substitute with 1 tsp soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar level of saltiness along with a bit of umami.
½ tsp ground black pepper - Substitute with ¼ tsp white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile.
1 large sweet onion - Substitute with 1 large yellow onion: Yellow onions have a similar sweetness and can be used interchangeably.
28 oz tomatoes - Substitute with 28 oz tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can provide a similar base for the meatballs.
basil - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh, vibrant flavor that can complement the dish in a different way.
Presenting Crockpot Turkey Meatballs
Serve smaller portion sizes: Form the turkey meatballs into bite-sized portions to create an elegant presentation. This allows for a refined and manageable tasting experience.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with finely chopped fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese to add a touch of color and sophistication.
Layering technique: Place a bed of thinly sliced sweet onion at the base of the plate. This not only adds flavor but also creates a visually appealing foundation for the meatballs.
Sauce presentation: Drizzle the crushed tomatoes sauce artistically around the meatballs, ensuring it is evenly distributed but not overwhelming. This adds a vibrant red hue to the plate.
Texture contrast: Add a small side of crispy panko crumbs, lightly toasted in olive oil, to provide a contrasting texture and enhance the overall dining experience.
Height and dimension: Stack the meatballs in a pyramid shape to add height and dimension to the plate. This creates a dynamic and visually interesting presentation.
Accompaniment: Serve with a delicate nest of freshly cooked pasta or a small meatball sub on the side, arranged neatly to complement the main dish without overshadowing it.
Finishing touch: Add a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the entire dish just before serving to enhance the flavors and give a glossy finish.
Essential Tools for Making Turkey Meatballs in a Crockpot
Large mixing bowl: Used to combine and mix the ground turkey, egg, panko, olive oil, parmesan, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Baking sheet: Used to place the rolled meatballs before browning them.
Crockpot: Used to slow cook the meatballs with onions and tomatoes for several hours.
Skillet: Used to lightly brown the meatballs before transferring them to the crockpot.
Spatula: Used to turn the meatballs in the skillet to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
Knife: Used to chop the garlic and slice the onion.
Cutting board: Used as a surface for chopping garlic and slicing the onion.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the panko and parmesan cheese.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Can opener: Used to open the cans of crushed tomatoes.
Serving spoon: Used to serve the meatballs once they are cooked.
Storage containers: Used to store any leftover meatballs in the refrigerator.
Storing and Freezing Crockpot Turkey Meatballs
Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This will prevent condensation from forming and keep the meatballs fresh.
If you plan to consume the meatballs within 3-4 days, store them in the refrigerator. They will maintain their quality and flavor for up to 4 days when properly stored.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag. To prevent the meatballs from sticking together, you can:
- Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid before transferring them to a container or bag.
- Alternatively, flash freeze the meatballs by placing them on a baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour, then transfer them to a container or bag. This will help them maintain their shape and make it easier to remove only the desired amount later.
If freezing the meatballs with the tomato sauce, make sure there is enough space in the container for the sauce to expand as it freezes.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents to keep track of when they were stored.
To reheat the frozen meatballs, you can:
- Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat them in a covered pot or slow cooker on low heat until they reach the desired temperature.
- For a quicker option, place the frozen meatballs and sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-45 minutes or until heated through.
Frozen turkey meatballs can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality. However, for the best texture and flavor, consume them within 1-2 months.
How To Reheat Leftover Crockpot Turkey Meatballs
Reheat in the oven: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the meatballs' texture and prevents them from drying out.
Reheat on the stovetop: place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Cover the pan and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are heated through (about 10-15 minutes). Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
Reheat in the microwave: place the meatballs and sauce in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent splattering and help retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until the meatballs are heated through.
Reheat in the slow cooker: if you have a large batch of leftover meatballs, you can reheat them in your slow cooker. Place the meatballs and sauce in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 1-2 hours or until heated through. This method is perfect for keeping the meatballs warm for an extended period, such as during a party or potluck.
Reheat as a meatball sub: slice a sub roll lengthwise and place a few meatballs with sauce inside. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method transforms your leftover meatballs into a delicious new meal.
Random Fact About Crockpot Turkey Meatballs
A random fact about this recipe is that using panko instead of regular breadcrumbs gives the meatballs a lighter and crispier texture. This Japanese-style breadcrumb is coarser and flakier, which helps to create a more tender meatball.
Is Making Turkey Meatballs in a Crockpot Economical for Home Cooking?
When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this crockpot turkey meatballs recipe, it's clear that it offers great value for a household. The use of lean ground turkey and panko provides a nutritious and affordable protein source. Ingredients like parmesan cheese, garlic, and sweet onion are relatively inexpensive and add rich flavors. The slow-cooking method ensures tender meatballs without the need for costly cuts of meat. Overall, this recipe scores a solid 8/10 in cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD.
Are Crockpot Turkey Meatballs Healthy or Unhealthy?
This crockpot turkey meatballs recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs. The use of lean ground turkey reduces the overall fat content, while the inclusion of herbs and spices like oregano, basil, and garlic provides flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy additives. The recipe also incorporates some vegetables, such as onions and tomatoes, which add nutrients and fiber to the dish.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Replace the panko breadcrumbs with whole wheat breadcrumbs or rolled oats to increase the fiber content and reduce the refined carbohydrates
- Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe, as it is still a calorie-dense ingredient. Instead, use a non-stick cooking spray or a smaller amount of oil to brown the meatballs
- Include more vegetables in the sauce, such as diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini, to increase the nutrient density of the dish
- Serve the meatballs with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables instead of pasta to create a more balanced meal
By making these small adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the recipe while still maintaining its delicious flavor. Additionally, using a slow cooker to prepare the meatballs allows for a convenient and hands-off cooking method that can help you stick to your healthy eating goals.
Editor's Opinion on This Crockpot Turkey Meatballs Recipe
This crockpot turkey meatballs recipe is a fantastic blend of convenience and flavor. The use of lean ground turkey makes it a healthier option, while the panko and parmesan add a delightful texture and richness. Browning the meatballs before slow cooking enhances their flavor, and the combination of garlic, oregano, and basil provides a classic Italian taste. The slow cooking process ensures the meatballs are tender and infused with the tomato sauce. This versatile dish can be served in various ways, making it a great addition to any meal plan. Overall, it's a well-balanced and delicious recipe.
Enhance Your Crockpot Turkey Meatballs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Recipes Similar to Crockpot Turkey Meatballs
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Crockpot Turkey Meatballs
Why trust this Crockpot Turkey Meatballs Recipe:
This crockpot turkey meatballs recipe is a must-try for its simplicity and rich flavors. Using lean ground turkey ensures a healthier option without sacrificing taste. The combination of panko, parmesan cheese, and garlic creates a deliciously moist and flavorful meatball. Browning them in olive oil before slow cooking enhances their texture and taste. The sweet onion and crushed tomatoes in the crockpot infuse the meatballs with a savory depth, making this dish perfect for any meal.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Turkey Cocktail Meatballs with Orange Cranberry Glaze Recipe
Low Carb Ground Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Skinny Italian Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Honey Roasted Peanut Butter Granola Recipe
Flourless Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies Recipe
Mediterranean Loaded French Fry Salad Recipe
Raspberry Almond Crumb Cake Recipe
The Best Ever Coconut Cake Recipe
Pickled Tuna Macaroni Salad Recipe
Spicy Shrimp Salad Recipe
Cilantro Egg Salad Recipe
