There’s something inherently cozy about the aroma of Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs wafting through your home. Picture this: tender meatballs simmering in a creamy garlic sauce, making you feel like you’ve just walked into an Italian bistro without even leaving your couch. It’s as if culinary magic happens at the hands of your slow cooker, transforming humble turkey into a dish that demands applause and second helpings.
I remember the first time I made these meatballs; it was a rainy Saturday afternoon. I had zero motivation to cook but a fierce craving for something delicious. My slow cooker became my best friend that day, and with minimal effort, I whipped up a feast that left my family singing its praises. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, these meatballs are perfect for any occasion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation allows you to enjoy flavorful meals without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The rich garlic and Parmesan flavor will have everyone coming back for more.
- These meatballs are visually appealing, with their golden-brown color and creamy sauce.
- They’re versatile enough to be served over pasta, in subs, or even as party appetizers!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey is perfect for these meatballs; it keeps them moist while being healthier than beef.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs together while adding texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds rich flavor; avoid pre-grated versions for the best taste.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives these meatballs their signature punch; don’t skimp on it!
- Egg: One large egg helps to hold everything together and adds richness to the mixture.
For the Sauce:
- Heavy Cream: This creates a luscious sauce that coats the meatballs perfectly; you can substitute with half-and-half if desired.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while adding depth of flavor.
End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.”
How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients and place them on your kitchen counter. This makes the process smoother and helps ensure nothing gets forgotten in the mix.
Step 2: Mix Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is incorporated but avoid overmixing—nobody likes tough meatballs!
Step 3: Form Meatballs
Using your hands (yes, it’s messy but fun!), shape the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs. Aim for uniform size so they cook evenly—unless you enjoy playing meatball roulette.
Step 4: Add to Slow Cooker
Lightly grease your slow cooker with cooking spray or olive oil. Place each meatball in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 5: Prepare Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and chicken broth. Pour this dreamy mixture over the meatballs in your slow cooker.
Step 6: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for about six hours or on high for three hours. When done, you’ll want to dive right into that creamy goodness!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Now that you’ve made these incredible Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs, get ready for compliments galore! Serve them over spaghetti for a comforting meal or alongside crusty bread as an appetizer during game night—you can’t go wrong! Enjoy every bite as you relish not just their flavor but also how easy they were to whip up!
You Must Know
- This recipe for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs combines rich flavors with effortless preparation.
- The meatballs soak in a creamy sauce, making them irresistible.
- Perfect for meal prep, they freeze well and are a hit at any gathering, ensuring smiles all around.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your turkey with seasonings and breadcrumbs. Form the meatballs while your slow cooker heats up. Brown them briefly in a skillet for extra flavor, then toss them into the slow cooker with the garlic parmesan sauce to simmer.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground turkey for chicken or beef if you prefer. Add herbs like basil or oregano for an Italian twist, or include veggies like spinach for added nutrition. Cheese lovers can sprinkle extra parmesan on top before serving!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave them gently or warm them in a skillet with a splash of sauce until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For best results, always use fresh herbs; they elevate the dish immensely.
- Avoid overcrowding the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
- Lastly, let the meatballs rest after cooking; it enhances their flavor and texture.
I once made these Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs for a family get-together and watched my cousin go back for thirds—definitely a proud moment!
FAQs :
What are Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs?
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs are flavorful meatballs made primarily with ground turkey, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Cooking them in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the meatballs moist and tender. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, as it requires minimal hands-on time. You can serve them over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or even on their own as an appetizer.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs?
Cooking Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The exact cooking time may vary based on your slow cooker model and the size of the meatballs. It’s essential to ensure that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. Keep an eye on them during the last hour of cooking for best results.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs! After cooking, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm them up in the microwave or back in the slow cooker until heated through.
What sides go well with Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs?
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs pair well with various sides. You can serve them over pasta or rice for a filling meal. A fresh green salad adds a nice contrast, while garlic bread complements the flavors perfectly. For a healthier option, consider steamed vegetables or zucchini noodles as a light alternative that balances the richness of the meatballs.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs :
In summary, Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs offer a delicious and easy-to-make meal that suits any occasion. With minimal prep time and a hands-off cooking approach using your slow cooker, these meatballs are perfect for busy families. The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates delightful flavors that everyone will enjoy. Whether served with pasta or as an appetizer, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home!
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 7 minute
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of these Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs, simmered slowly in a creamy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1/2 cup plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs.
- Lightly grease your slow cooker with cooking spray or olive oil. Place the meatballs in a single layer at the bottom.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and chicken broth.
- Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours until fully cooked.
- Transfer meatballs to plates and drizzle with sauce before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, briefly brown the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. - Feel free to replace ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef if desired. - Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for an Italian flair.
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