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– **For the Sauce**:
– 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
– 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
### **Instructions**:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef-pork mix), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
2. Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get about 16-20 meatballs, depending on size.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Sear the meatballs in batches, turning them until they are golden brown on all sides. This step helps lock in the flavor and creates a nice crust on the outside.
4. Once seared, transfer the meatballs to the slow cooker.
#### Step 2: Make the Sauce
1. In a bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream (or coconut milk), balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar), sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Be sure to cover the meatballs completely with the sauce.
#### Step 3: Slow Cook the Meatballs
1. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set the heat to low. Let the meatballs cook for 4-6 hours, or until they are tender and fully cooked through. The slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld and create a rich, delicious sauce.
#### Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
1. Once the meatballs are cooked, serve them hot over pasta, rice, or even on their own with a side of crusty bread. The creamy, tangy sauce will make every bite a flavorful experience.
### **Serving Suggestions**
The beauty of slow cooker meatballs is that they can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are a few ideas for serving your delicious creation:
1. **Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs**: Serve the meatballs over a bed of spaghetti or any other pasta of your choice. The creamy sauce will coat the pasta perfectly.
2. **Meatball Subs**: For a quick and satisfying lunch, place the meatballs on a toasted sub roll and top with melted mozzarella or provolone cheese.
3. **Rice or Mashed Potatoes**: Meatballs go wonderfully with a side of steamed rice or creamy mashed potatoes, allowing the sauce to soak into the starches and create a comforting dish.
4. **Meatball Appetizers**: If you’re hosting a party, serve the meatballs as bite-sized appetizers with toothpicks for easy eating. They make a great addition to any buffet or hors d’oeuvres table.
### **Variations and Customizations**
1. **Spicy Meatballs**: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or the sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.
2. **Herb Variations**: While parsley and basil are classic, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, for added depth of flavor.
3. **Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs**: For a fun twist, stuff each meatball with a small cube of mozzarella cheese before searing and slow cooking. When you bite into them, you’ll be greeted with a gooey, cheesy surprise!
### **Conclusion**
Slow cooker meatballs are already a delicious, easy, and comforting meal, but adding just two special ingredients—heavy cream (or coconut milk) and balsamic vinegar (or red wine vinegar)—can take them to the next level. The creaminess and tanginess introduced by these ingredients create a rich, well-balanced sauce that perfectly complements the savory, juicy meatballs.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just making dinner for your family, these slow cooker meatballs are a sure way to impress. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish is a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. So, next time you make meatballs, remember to add those secret ingredients and enjoy the enhanced flavor and texture they bring to the table!
