Crockpot Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

• Set it and forget it: This crockpot meatballs recipe requires just 5 minutes of prep time before your slow cooker takes over. Simply dump in the ingredients, set the timer, and come back to a delicious meal ready to serve.
• Versatile serving options: These flavorful meatballs can be served as a main dish over pasta, stuffed into sub rolls for sandwiches, or offered as appetizers at your next gathering. One recipe, endless possibilities!
• Kid-friendly favorite: Even picky eaters love these Italian meatballs. The simple tomato sauce is crowd-pleasing without being overly spiced, making this a dinner the whole family will enjoy.
• Great for meal prep: Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy these meatballs throughout the week. They store beautifully in an airtight container and taste even better as the flavors continue to develop.

Recipe Ingredients

See the recipe card below for a complete list of ingredients and measurements.

Ingredient Notes:

• Frozen meatballs – The ultimate time-saver, using frozen meatballs eliminates the need to make them from scratch. Choose Italian-style meatballs for the best flavor, though any variety will work well in this recipe.
• Tomato sauce – A can of no-salt-added tomato sauce creates the perfect base for the flavorful sauce. This allows you to control the sodium level while still getting that rich tomato flavor.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic cloves add depth and aromatic flavor to the sauce. Don’t skimp here—3-5 cloves ensure the sauce has plenty of that classic Italian flavor.
• Italian seasoning – This herb blend typically contains basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram, adding authentic Italian flavor without having to measure multiple spices.
• Onion powder and garlic powder – These dried seasonings add an extra layer of flavor that permeates throughout the sauce and meatballs during the slow cooking process.
• Salt and pepper – Seasoning to taste brings all the flavors together. Start with a small amount, especially if your tomato sauce already contains salt.
• Fresh parsley – An optional garnish that adds color and a hint of freshness to the finished dish.
• Parmesan cheese – A sprinkle of shredded parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish that elevates the entire dish. It’s optional but highly recommended.

Substitutions and Additions

• Sauce variations – Instead of plain tomato sauce, try crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture or your favorite jarred pasta sauce for extra flavor and convenience.
• Homemade meatballs – While frozen meatballs are convenient, you can absolutely use homemade ones. Form your meatball mixture and either cook them first or add them raw to the slow cooker (adding about 1-2 hours to the cooking time).
• Meat options – Not a fan of beef? Try turkey meatballs for a leaner option, or look for chicken or pork varieties in the frozen section.
• Cheese please – For an extra indulgent dish, add mozzarella cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of cooking until it melts into gooey perfection.
• Spice it up – Add a bit of heat with red pepper flakes, or stir in some chili sauce for a sweet-spicy kick.
• Secret ingredient – For a truly unique flavor, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a quarter cup of grape jelly (trust me on this one!).

How to Make Crockpot Italian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce (step-by-step directions)

STEP 1. Place your frozen meatballs in the bottom of a 5-quart or larger crockpot or slow cooker. (Photo 1)

STEP 2. Pour the tomato sauce over the meatballs, then add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and garlic powder. (Photo 2)

STEP 3. Season with salt and pepper according to your personal preference, keeping in mind that you can always add more later.

STEP 4. Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker to LOW for 3-5 hours, until the meatballs are completely heated through.

STEP 5. About 30 minutes before serving, gently stir the mixture to ensure the sauce and seasonings are well combined and coating the meatballs. (Photo 3)

STEP 6. Once done, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired. (Photo 4)

STEP 7. Serve immediately over pasta, in sandwich rolls, or with toothpicks as an appetizer.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook – While slow cookers are forgiving, leaving the meatballs too long can dry them out. Aim for the lower end of the time range if your crockpot runs hot.
• Double the sauce – If you’re planning to serve these with pasta, consider adding an extra can of tomato sauce to ensure there’s plenty for coating the noodles.
• Avoid lifting the lid – Each time you peek, you add about 15-20 minutes to the cooking time as heat escapes. Trust the process!
• Layer flavors – For the best flavor development, place the meatballs in first, then pour the sauce and seasonings on top, allowing them to slowly soak in as they cook.
• Brown for depth – If time allows, quickly brown the frozen meatballs in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker for a deeper, more complex flavor.
• Even cooking – Try to arrange the meatballs in a single layer if possible, or at least ensure they’re evenly distributed for consistent cooking.

Storing Tips

• Storage: These meatballs store beautifully and often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
• Refrigerator: Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container for 3-4 days. The sauce may thicken in the refrigerator, which is completely normal.
• Freezing: These meatballs freeze exceptionally well for up to 3 months. Freeze in portion-sized containers for easy future meals. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm refrigerated leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot. Add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce if the mixture seems too thick.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these saucy meatballs over pasta or with a side of Homemade Italian Breadsticks for soaking up the extra sauce. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, pair with a fresh Black Bean and Corn Mexican Salad Recipe or try my Italian Sausage & Zucchini Galette With Tomatoes & Ricotta as an impressive starter.

For a lighter option, these meatballs are delicious alongside Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes or a simple green salad. Don’t forget some Pull-apart Garlic Cheesy Bread to make the meal complete!

Recipe FAQs