Name: Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds lean ground turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup onion, finely grated or minced; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning); 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes or 3 cups marinara sauce; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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These Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs are tender, flavorful, and effortlessly delicious. They simmer all day in a rich tomato sauce, soaking up every bit of flavor while staying juicy and soft. It’s the kind of recipe I love to throw together in the morning and come back to at dinnertime — comforting, hearty, and surprisingly healthy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy and forgiving this recipe is. The slow cooker does all the work, turning simple ingredients into a meal that tastes like it’s been simmering on the stove for hours. Using lean ground turkey keeps the meatballs light, while herbs and breadcrumbs make them tender and flavorful. It’s perfect for busy days, family dinners, or meal prep. The leftovers are even better the next day! Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground turkey (lean or extra-lean)
Breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
Grated Parmesan cheese
Egg
Garlic cloves, minced
Onion, finely grated or minced
Dried Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper
Olive oil (optional, for browning)
Crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

I start by combining ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. I mix everything gently until combined — just enough to bring the mixture together without overworking it.
I form the mixture into meatballs about 1½ inches in size.
For extra flavor, I sometimes brown the meatballs in a skillet with a little olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This step adds a nice crust, but it’s optional if I want to keep things simple.
I pour a layer of sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker, arrange the meatballs in a single layer, and pour the rest of the sauce over the top.
I cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 2½–3 hours, until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
Before serving, I gently stir the sauce and sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16–20 meatballs, enough for 4–6 servings. It takes about 15 minutes of prep and 5–6 hours of slow cooking on low (or 3 hours on high).

Variations

I sometimes use ground chicken instead of turkey for a lighter flavor or mix in a little ground beef for extra richness. When I want a spicy version, I add crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the sauce. For a Mediterranean twist, I swap Italian seasoning for oregano and mint, then serve the meatballs with a lemony yogurt sauce instead of marinara.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm them gently on the stovetop over medium heat until hot. They also freeze beautifully — I let them cool completely, then store them with sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, I thaw overnight in the fridge and warm through in a saucepan or slow cooker. Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs

FAQs

Do I have to brown the meatballs first?

No, I often skip that step when I’m short on time. Browning adds flavor, but the slow cooker keeps them tender and delicious even without it.

Can I use store-bought sauce?

Yes, I do that often. I just choose a good-quality marinara or crushed tomato sauce with minimal added sugar and salt.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

I make sure to use an egg and enough breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture. I also handle the meat gently so it doesn’t get too dense.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. I double the ingredients and layer the meatballs in the slow cooker with extra sauce. They cook just as well — I just make sure everything is evenly covered.

What should I serve these meatballs with?

I love serving them over spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or brown rice. They’re also great tucked into hoagie rolls for hearty subs or served on their own with a side salad.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs are one of my favorite comfort meals made easy. I love how they come out juicy and full of flavor every time, with almost no effort. Whether I serve them over pasta, in sandwiches, or as a simple protein-packed dinner, they always make the day feel a little cozier.