Name: Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 32 oz frozen meatballs; 10 oz cream of mushroom soup; 14 oz Alfredo pasta sauce; ½ cup sour cream; 10 oz beef consommé; 1 tsp dried parsley

Imagine coming home to a delicious, comforting meal that's ready to serve. This creamy slow cooker meatballs recipe is a perfect blend of savory flavors and creamy textures, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can have a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will love.

Photos of Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe

While most ingredients in this recipe are common pantry items, you may need to check for a couple of specifics. Beef consommé is a rich, flavorful broth that can be found in the soup aisle of your supermarket. Also, Alfredo pasta sauce is a creamy sauce often located near other pasta sauces. Make sure to have these on hand to achieve the perfect creamy texture.

Ingredients For Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe

Frozen meatballs: Pre-made and frozen, these save time and ensure consistency.

Cream of mushroom soup: Adds a rich, earthy flavor to the dish.

Alfredo pasta sauce: Provides a creamy, indulgent base for the sauce.

Sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess to the sauce.

Beef consommé: A clear, flavorful broth that enhances the meatiness of the dish.

Dried parsley: Adds a touch of herby freshness and color.

One reader, Carling Samuelson says:

This creamy slow cooker meatballs recipe is a game-changer! The meatballs are incredibly tender, and the sauce is rich and flavorful. Perfect for a cozy dinner, and the slow cooker makes it so convenient. My family loved it!

Carling Samuelson

Techniques Required for Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe

Yes.

How to blend ingredients: Use a whisk or spoon to mix the cream of mushroom soup, alfredo sauce, and beef consommé until they are well combined. How to stir occasionally: Every couple of hours, use a spoon to gently mix the meatballs and sauce to ensure even cooking and coating. How to blend in sour cream: About an hour before serving, add the sour cream to the slow cooker and stir until it is fully incorporated into the sauce.

How To Make Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs

Enjoy a savory plate of slow cooker meatballs with our fuss-free recipe! It’s rich, creamy, and all easily made in the slow cooker.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 6 hours

Total: 6 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

32ozfrozen meatballs
10ozcream of mushroom soup,use reduced-sodium or reduced fat
14ozalfredo pasta sauce,like Bertolli’s
½cupsour cream,low fat
10ozbeef consommé
1tspdried parsley

Instructions

Add the cream of mushroom soup, alfredo sauce, and beef consommé to the slow cooker, then blend well.
Add the meatballs, then stir to coat.
Cook on Low for 6 to 8 hours, stirring occasionally.
About 1 hour before serving, blend in the sour cream, and allow it to heat through.
Sprinkle with parsley, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 961.83kcal
Fat: 72.83g
Saturated Fat: 27.73g
Trans Fat: 2.69g
Monounsaturated Fat: 29.17g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.75g
Carbohydrates: 24.35g
Fiber: 1.52g
Sugar: 3.80g
Protein: 49.70g
Cholesterol: 203.76mg
Sodium: 2125.55mg
Calcium: 316.90mg
Potassium: 872.97mg
Iron: 5.23mg
Vitamin A: 88.00µg
Vitamin C: 0.70mg

Technique Tip for Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe

To ensure the meatballs are evenly coated and cooked thoroughly, give the mixture a gentle stir every couple of hours. This helps distribute the sauces and prevents any sticking to the sides of the slow cooker.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Creamy Meatballs in a Slow Cooker

Use pre-made sauces: Opt for store-bought alfredo sauce and cream of mushroom soup to save prep time.

Quick thaw meatballs: Thaw frozen meatballs in the microwave for a few minutes to reduce cooking time.

Combine ingredients ahead: Mix the cream of mushroom soup, alfredo sauce, and beef consommé the night before and store in the fridge.

Use a programmable slow cooker: Set your slow cooker to start cooking at a specific time so your meal is ready when you are.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the sour cream and dried parsley in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe

frozen meatballs - Substitute with homemade meatballs: You can make your own meatballs using ground beef, pork, or turkey mixed with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings for a fresher taste.
cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with cream of chicken soup: This provides a similar creamy texture and flavor profile, though slightly different in taste.
alfredo pasta sauce - Substitute with cream cheese and milk: Mixing cream cheese with milk can create a creamy sauce that mimics the texture and richness of Alfredo sauce.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy consistency, with the added benefit of being lower in fat and higher in protein.
beef consommé - Substitute with beef broth: Beef broth is a more readily available option that provides a similar depth of flavor, though it may be slightly less concentrated.
dried parsley - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used to add a more vibrant flavor and color to the dish, though you may need to use a bit more than the dried version.

Presenting Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the meatballs in a minimalist style, using a small, elegant plate. Place three meatballs in the center, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with a light sprinkle of dried parsley around the edges of the plate, creating a frame for the meatballs.
Add texture: Incorporate a crispy element by adding a few toasted breadcrumbs on top of the meatballs. This will provide a contrast to the creamy sauce.
Sauce presentation: Drizzle the creamy sauce artistically around the meatballs, rather than pouring it over them. This will highlight the meatballs and keep the presentation clean.
Color contrast: Add a pop of color with a small side of blanched green beans or asparagus. Place them neatly next to the meatballs to enhance the visual appeal.
Height and dimension: Stack the meatballs slightly, using a small dollop of sauce between each one to create height and dimension on the plate.
Finishing touch: Add a delicate sprig of fresh parsley or a small basil leaf on top of the meatballs for a fresh and vibrant finishing touch.

Essential Tools for Making Creamy Meatballs in a Slow Cooker

Slow cooker: Essential for cooking the meatballs slowly and evenly, allowing the flavors to meld together over several hours.
Mixing spoon: Used to blend the cream of mushroom soup, alfredo sauce, and beef consommé together, and to stir the meatballs to ensure they are well-coated.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the sour cream and any other ingredients that need precise quantities.
Can opener: Needed to open the cans of cream of mushroom soup and beef consommé.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the slow cooker and ensuring all ingredients are well mixed.
Serving spoon: Ideal for serving the creamy meatballs once they are cooked and ready to enjoy.
Measuring spoons: Required for measuring out the dried parsley and any other small quantity ingredients.
Mixing bowl: Handy for blending the sour cream into the sauce before adding it to the slow cooker.

Storing and Freezing Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs

Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This will prevent condensation from forming and keep the meatballs fresh for longer.
If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The cream sauce may thicken when chilled, but it will loosen up again when reheated.
To freeze the meatballs, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. This method prevents the meatballs from sticking together, making it easier to thaw only the amount you need.
When freezing, make sure to label the container or bag with the date and contents. The frozen meatballs will keep for up to 3 months.
To reheat the frozen meatballs, you can either thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them directly in the slow cooker on low heat until they are heated through. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a little beef broth or water to thin it out.
If you want to freeze the meatballs with the cream sauce, make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave some headspace for the sauce to expand as it freezes. Thaw the meatballs and sauce in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the slow cooker or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs

Reheat the meatballs in the slow cooker on low heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method allows the flavors to meld together even more, resulting in an even tastier dish.
Place the leftover meatballs and sauce in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until heated through. This is a quick and easy method for reheating smaller portions.
Transfer the meatballs and sauce to a large skillet or saucepan, cover, and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This stovetop method allows for more control over the reheating process and helps prevent the meatballs from drying out.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the meatballs and sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method is ideal for reheating larger quantities and ensures even heating throughout.
If the sauce has thickened during storage, add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out while reheating, ensuring a creamy and smooth texture.
For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the reheated meatballs before serving.
Serve the reheated creamy slow cooker meatballs over freshly cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Interesting Fact About Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs

A fun fact about this creamy slow cooker meatballs recipe is that using frozen meatballs not only saves time but also ensures that the meatballs hold their shape during the long, slow cooking process.

Is Making Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs Economical for Home Cooking?

When evaluating the cost-effectiveness of this creamy slow cooker meatballs recipe, it scores a solid 8 out of 10. The use of frozen meatballs and pantry staples like cream of mushroom soup and alfredo pasta sauce keeps the cost low while providing a rich, comforting meal. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$18 USD, making it an affordable option for a hearty dinner.

Is This Creamy Slow Cooker Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy slow cooker meatballs recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High fat content from the cream of mushroom soup, alfredo sauce, and sour cream
Sodium levels in the frozen meatballs, soups, and sauces
Lack of vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients
Processed ingredients like frozen meatballs and canned soups

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use lean, homemade meatballs instead of frozen ones to control the quality and sodium content of the meat
Replace the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version using low-fat milk and fresh mushrooms
Swap the alfredo sauce for a lighter, homemade alternative using low-fat milk, Greek yogurt, and parmesan cheese
Increase the nutrient density by adding vegetables like diced onions, garlic, carrots, and spinach to the sauce
Serve the meatballs over whole grain pasta, quinoa, or zucchini noodles for added fiber and nutrients
Use low-sodium beef broth instead of consommé to reduce the overall sodium content
Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for added flavor without extra calories or sodium

By making these adjustments, you can transform this comforting dish into a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your cravings for creamy, savory meatballs.

Editor's Opinion on This Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe

This creamy slow cooker meatballs recipe is a delightful comfort food that combines convenience with rich flavors. The blend of cream of mushroom soup, alfredo sauce, and beef consommé creates a luscious base that perfectly complements the meatballs. Adding sour cream towards the end ensures a smooth, velvety texture. The dried parsley adds a touch of freshness and color. It's an excellent dish for busy days, as the slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. A satisfying and hearty meal that is sure to please.

Enhance Your Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy goodness of potatoes infused with the aromatic essence of garlic. This side dish will perfectly complement the rich flavors of your meatballs.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Elevate your meal with the crispy, savory delight of Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection and paired with the smoky crunch of bacon. A match made in culinary heaven!

Parmesan Herb Breadsticks: Parmesan Herb Breadsticks: These golden, crispy breadsticks are sprinkled with Parmesan cheese and a medley of herbs, making them the ideal partner to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce.

Caprese Salad: Caprese Salad: Fresh, vibrant tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with a touch of balsamic glaze. This refreshing salad adds a burst of color and flavor to your meal.

Apple Crisp: Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm, comforting apple crisp. The tender apples and crunchy oat topping create a delightful contrast that will leave everyone craving more.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs

Swedish Meatballs: Dive into a classic with these Swedish meatballs. The rich, creamy sauce made from beef broth and sour cream will have you savoring every bite. Serve over egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff: Experience the ultimate comfort food with slow cooker beef stroganoff. Tender beef chunks simmered in a creamy mushroom sauce, finished with a dollop of sour cream. Perfect over pasta or rice.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a rich and decadent creamy chicken alfredo. Juicy chicken breasts cooked in a luscious alfredo sauce with a hint of garlic. Serve over fettuccine and garnish with parsley.

Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings: Warm up with a bowl of slow cooker chicken and dumplings. Tender chicken and vegetables in a creamy broth, topped with fluffy dumplings. A hearty and satisfying meal for any day.

Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken: Transport your taste buds to Italy with creamy Tuscan garlic chicken. Chicken breasts simmered in a garlic and sun-dried tomato cream sauce, with a touch of spinach. Serve with pasta or crusty bread.

Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The cheese melts into a creamy, flavorful filling that perfectly complements the earthy mushrooms. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top adds a satisfying crunch. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic starter that never fails to impress. Picture slices of toasted baguette topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a touch of balsamic glaze, each bite is a harmonious blend of crunchy bread and juicy, flavorful toppings. This simple yet elegant appetizer is perfect for showcasing the freshness of your ingredients and setting the tone for a delicious meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, gooey center of a chocolate lava cake. This decadent treat features a warm, molten core that oozes out when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of hot and cold. The chocolate lava cake is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a luxurious dessert experience.

Tiramisu: Transport yourself to Italy with a classic tiramisu. This layered dessert combines the bold flavors of espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a creamy mascarpone filling. Dust the top with cocoa powder for an elegant finish. The tiramisu is an exquisite choice for those who appreciate a sophisticated and flavorful end to their meal.

Why trust this Creamy Slow Cooker Meatballs Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of cream of mushroom soup, alfredo pasta sauce, and beef consommé to create a truly indulgent dish. The slow cooker method ensures the meatballs are tender and infused with all the creamy goodness. Adding sour cream towards the end enhances the texture and flavor, making it irresistibly smooth. Sprinkling with parsley adds a fresh touch. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and the harmonious blend of ingredients that promise a comforting and delicious meal.

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FAQ:

How can I make this recipe if I don't have a slow cooker?

You can make this recipe on the stovetop by simmering the meatballs in the sauce over low heat for about 2-3 hours. Just make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen ones?

Absolutely! If you're using fresh meatballs, you might want to brown them in a skillet first to add extra flavor and ensure they hold together well in the sauce.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

If you're not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or even make your own creamy base with heavy cream and sautéed mushrooms.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely add vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers. Just chop them up and add them to the slow cooker along with the meatballs.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.