Crock-Pot Meatballs And Sausage
Savory crock-pot meatballs and sausage simmered in rich spaghetti sauce and gravy, offering hearty flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- To the ground meat, add bread crumbs, eggs, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, salt, and pepper, then mix well.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs and broil in the oven until browned.
- Place the meatballs and sausage rings into the crock-pot.
- Mix the spaghetti sauce and brown gravy mix together, then pour over the meatballs and sausage in the crock-pot.
- Cook on low heat for 3 hours.
- Skim off any grease that rises to the surface before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Italian seasoning or garlic powder with the meat mixture. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute half of the ground meat with turkey or chicken. You can also use whole wheat bread crumbs for a nutritious boost. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked meatballs can save you some effort.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs and sausage over a bed of spaghetti or alongside garlic bread for a hearty meal. A fresh green salad pairs well, providing a nice crunch and balance to the dish. For a comforting twist, consider serving with creamy mashed potatoes, which complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover meatballs and sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in a covered dish for 2-3 minutes, checking every minute.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Meatballs And Sausage contains roughly 198 calories, with 5g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1398mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen meatballs instead of making them from scratch?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs to save time. Just add them directly to the crock-pot with the sauce; they may need an extra hour of cooking time to heat through. Ensure that they are fully cooked before serving.
What can I substitute for the spaghetti sauce?
If you don’t have Prego Three Cheese spaghetti sauce, you can use any marinara or tomato-based sauce. For a twist, try a roasted garlic or basil-flavored sauce to enhance the dish's overall taste.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sausage the night before and store them in the fridge. Just assemble everything in the crock-pot in the morning and let it cook throughout the day for a delicious meal when you return.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).