Need an easy meal or appetizer? We are sharing how long to cook frozen meatballs in the crockpot for the ultimate tender, tasty meatball.

 

Crockpot meals are perfect for busy days and there isn’t anything easier than cooking frozen meatballs in the crockpot.

Why this frozen meatball recipe works

Simple – It doesn’t get any easier than putting the ingredients in the slow cooker, set the time and forget it until it’s time to eat. The best part is, they can be cooked straight from frozen.

Variety – Meatballs are perfect for a hearty meal or a filling appetizer. Try them on pasta, or serve with a toothpick for the perfect appetizer bite.

Can you cook meatballs from frozen in slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the meatballs from frozen. No need to thaw before cooking them in the slow cooker.

You can also cook thawed meatballs in the slow cooker, just cook them for a shorter time, 2-3 hours.

How to cook frozen meatballs in crockpot

This recipe requires a bag of frozen meatballs, or frozen homemade meatballs that have already been cooked. I’m using the FarmRich brand Italian meatballs but feel free to use your favorite. You can also cook frozen chicken or turkey meatballs.

Step one: Pour frozen meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour over ingredients like jarred sauce. Cover with lid. Note you will need to use at least 3 cups of sauce to cover the meatballs.

Step two: Set the time to 4-6 hours on low heat. If you are in a hurry you can cook for 4 hours on high heat. I recommend checking them around the 5-6 hour mark. If they are done then turn the slow cooker to warm until ready to eat.

Step three: Serve warm. Make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 160 degrees F.

Recipe tips

• I would recommend giving the meatballs a stir once or twice throughout the cooking process. This helps to prevent burning.
• Make sure that the meatball internal temperature reaches at least 160 degrees F for food safety.
• Can they be cooked for 8 hours? Yes you can cook them on low for 8 hours if you will be gone all day.
• If you are serving these at a party, they can stay on the warm setting in the slow cooker for up to 3 hours.
• If you are cooking frozen homemade meatballs, make sure they have been cooked before they were frozen.

Crockpot meatball sauce ideas

This crockpot recipe is super versatile. Pair the meatballs with your favorite sauce. Here are a few favorites:

Marinara – You can use your favorite jarred or homemade marinara or spaghetti sauce.

BBQ – Use just a jar of your favorite BBQ sauce or combine it with grape jelly.

Sweet and Sour – Make a simple sauce with brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, and vinegar.

Chili sauce – Make another version of grape jelly sauce by combining chili sauce and grape jelly.

What to serve with meatballs

Slow cooker meatballs are not only easy to make but very versatile. Here are a few favorite ways to serve them:

Meatball subs – Once they have finished cooking, place on toasted bread or a slider bun and top with melted cheese.

Pasta – Pasta is the classic side dish. Spaghetti noodles, rotini, egg noodles, or your favorite shape.

Rice – Great on top of white or brown rice.

Mashed potatoes – Meatballs are great served on top of mashed potatoes, especially with a gravy.

Appetizer – Simply serve them with toothpicks as a delicious, easy appetizer.

How to store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to let them completely cook before storing. Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

Did you try this slow cooker recipe? Be sure to let us know in the comments and be sure to check out these other 25 meatball recipes for more dinner ideas.

More slow cooker recipes

• Slow cooker Mississippi chicken
• Slow cooker beef stew
• Slow cooker chicken spaghetti

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