There’s something magical about the aroma of slow-cooked meals wafting through your home, like a warm hug from your grandma. Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy turkey meatballs, bursting with garlic and parmesan goodness, while your taste buds rejoice in the symphony of flavors that only a slow cooker can conjure. The best part? You hardly have to lift a finger.
Now, let’s be real; we all need those recipes that practically cook themselves while we binge-watch our favorite series or attempt to become a professional couch potato. Enter Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs! This dish is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, and it promises an explosion of flavor without turning you into a culinary wizard. hearty slow cooker recipes.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These turkey meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, letting you enjoy more time with loved ones.
- Their rich garlic and parmesan flavor will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- A feast for both the eyes and stomach, these meatballs make any plate pop with color.
- Perfect for weeknight meals but versatile enough for potlucks or game day.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Turkey: Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option that still delivers on flavor.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic brings an aromatic punch that pairs beautifully with the turkey.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds richness and depth to each meatball—don’t skimp!
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to bind the meatballs together while adding texture.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent, holding everything together without making it too dense.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds freshness but also makes the dish visually appealing.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in this delightful dish.
For the Sauce:
- Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought marinara or whip up a quick homemade version for added flair.
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 chop the parsley. Mince those garlic cloves until they resemble tiny little flavor bombs just waiting to explode!
Step 2: Mix It Up
In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Get in there with your hands (clean ones!) and mix until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Form Those Meatballs
Roll the mixture into balls about the size of golf balls. This should yield around twenty delightful meatballs ready to be transformed by slow cooking magic.
Step 4: Slow Cook Like a Pro
Place the meatballs in your slow cooker and pour marinara sauce over them until they are generously coated. Cover and set your slow cooker to low for about 4-6 hours.
Step 5: Time to Taste
Once cooked through and smelling divine (you may want to resist eating them straight from the pot), sprinkle additional parmesan on top before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer those glorious meatballs onto plates or sub rolls for an unforgettable sandwich experience. Drizzle with extra marinara if desired and garnish with fresh parsley.
Now you have it—Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs that are bound to steal the spotlight at any meal! Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve mastered yet another crowd-pleaser with minimal effort involved!
You Must Know
- These Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs are not just delicious; they make dinner feel like a fancy restaurant experience.
- With minimal effort, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about.
- Plus, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your neighbors knocking on your door!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by mixing the turkey meatball ingredients thoroughly. Shape them into uniform balls before placing them in your slow cooker. Pour the garlic parmesan sauce over the top and let it work its magic for several hours.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground turkey for chicken or beef if you prefer. Experiment with spices like Italian seasoning or even a dash of red pepper flakes for a kick. You could also add chopped spinach for extra nutrients without losing flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, place them back in the slow cooker on low for about an hour or heat gently in a microwave until warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect meatballs, ensure the meat is cold before mixing; this helps retain moisture.
- Avoid overmixing to keep them tender and fluffy.
- For added flavor, sear the meatballs briefly before slow cooking for extra depth.
Sometimes I catch myself reminiscing about that one dinner when my friends devoured these meatballs so fast that I barely got a taste. They were practically licking their plates clean, which is always a sign of success!
FAQs :
What are Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs?
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs are a delicious and easy dish made with ground turkey, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. This recipe utilizes a slow cooker to allow the meatballs to simmer in a savory sauce, enhancing their flavor and tenderness. spicy slow cooker options They make for a perfect family meal or party appetizer, offering a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs. You can enjoy them with pasta, on sandwiches, or as finger food during gatherings. For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe recipe.
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 slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the meatballs moist and tender. It’s important to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. Adjust the cooking time based on your slow cooker model for best results.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs! After they have cooked and cooled completely, transfer them into an airtight container or freezer bag. Label with the date and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat either in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick meal.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs?
You can serve Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs with various sides to create a complete meal. Consider pairing them with spaghetti or zoodles for a classic dish. You can also serve them in sub rolls topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella for delicious meatball subs. delicious parmesan variations For a lighter option, toss them on top of salads or enjoy as appetizers with toothpicks at parties.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs :
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs are a flavorful and convenient dish that everyone will love. With minimal preparation and effortless cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. The combination of garlic and Parmesan adds depth to each meatball, making them irresistible. perfect side dish for meatballs Don’t forget that these meatballs are versatile too; pair them with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal! Enjoy this easy recipe at home for delicious results every time!
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs
Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Turkey Meatballs are a deliciously simple dish that transforms lean turkey into tender, flavor-packed meatballs. Infused with garlic and rich parmesan, these meatballs simmer in marinara sauce, making them a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. With minimal prep time, you can set your slow cooker and enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your home while you relax.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: 25 minute
- Yield: Approximately 20 meatballs (6 servings) 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping parsley and mincing garlic.
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs (about 20).
- Place meatballs in the slow cooker and cover with marinara sauce.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until meatballs are cooked through.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider searing the meatballs briefly before slow cooking. Substitute ground turkey for chicken or beef if preferred. Add spinach for extra nutrition without sacrificing flavor.




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