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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke as much nostalgia and warmth as spaghetti and meatballs. This classic Italian-American meal has been a staple in homes for generations, known for its rich flavors and satisfying textures. The combination of hearty meatballs, tender pasta, and a robust tomato sauce creates an inviting dish that brings family and friends together around the dinner table. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones, spaghetti and meatballs is sure to please the crowd.

Slow Cooker Spaghetti and Meatballs

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this easy slow cooker spaghetti and meatballs recipe. Perfect for busy nights, it transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that brings everyone together. Enjoy the rich flavors of tender meatballs simmered in a robust tomato sauce, ready to greet you with an irresistible aroma when you come home. Quick to prepare and deeply satisfying, this dish is sure to become a family favorite, fostering warmth and delicious memories around your dinner table.
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef (80/20 for optimal juiciness)

1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1/4 cup onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

For the Sauce:

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 teaspoons sugar (to balance acidity)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)

1 onion, diced

For Serving:

12 oz spaghetti (uncooked)

Additional grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs.

    Form the Meatballs: With clean hands, shape the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet or plate as you form them. This will help keep them organized before cooking.

      Sear the Meatballs (Optional): If you want to enhance the flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and lightly sear the meatballs for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step is optional, as the meatballs will cook thoroughly in the slow cooker.

        Make the Sauce: In the slow cooker, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, dried oregano, dried basil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and diced onion. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined.

          Add Meatballs to the Sauce: Carefully lower the meatballs into the sauce. Use a spoon to gently submerge them in the liquid, ensuring they are covered as much as possible for even cooking.

            Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let it cook for 6-8 hours or on high heat for approximately 3-4 hours. The meatballs should be tender and fully cooked once the time is up.

              Cook the Spaghetti: About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

                Combine and Serve: When the meatballs are ready, you can either stir in the drained spaghetti directly into the slow cooker, tossing it gently to coat with the sauce, or plate the spaghetti individually and top it with the meatballs and sauce.

                  Garnish: Before serving, generously sprinkle each plate with additional grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes | Servings: 6-8 portions

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve in shallow pasta bowls, with the spaghetti forming a nest at the bottom and a few meatballs artfully placed on top. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil for shine and extra flavor!