For a deeper flavor, brown the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a touch of heat. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Savor the delightful ease of these slow-cooked turkey meatballs, bathed in a rich tomato sauce. A lighter, yet equally satisfying alternative to beef, they're perfect over pasta or nestled in a warm sandwich.
Sauté the minced onion in Italian dressing over medium heat until softened and translucent. (Approx. 5 minutes). Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. (Approx. 5 minutes)
In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, Italian-seasoned bread crumbs, crushed garlic, sautéed onions, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and dried basil. This will be your flavorful tomato bath for the meatballs.
Gently form half of the turkey mixture into approximately 1 1/2-inch meatballs. Layer them evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour half of the tomato mixture over the meatballs, ensuring they are partially submerged.
Form the remaining turkey mixture into meatballs and layer them on top of the first layer in the slow cooker. Pour the remaining tomato mixture over the second layer of meatballs, ensuring they are well coated.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 8 hours, or on High for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to become tender and succulent.
For a deeper flavor, brown the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a touch of heat. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Korbin Bergnaum
Jun 9, 2025I added some extra veggies to the sauce, and it turned out great!
Orval Ferry
Jun 5, 2025This is now my go-to recipe for turkey meatballs. Thanks for sharing!
Shanie Johnson
May 18, 2025My kids are picky eaters, but they devoured these meatballs!
Ryann Keebler
May 1, 2025These were so easy to make and tasted amazing! My family loved them.
Geovanni Rau
Jan 7, 2025I browned the meatballs before putting them in the slow cooker, and it made a big difference.
Whitney Ruecker
Jan 7, 2025I made these for a party, and they were a huge hit!