Crock-Pot Spaghetti Sauce And Meat Balls
Hearty crock-pot spaghetti sauce with meatballs combines rich tomato flavors, garlic, and herbs, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place tomatoes, tomato soup, tomato paste, minced garlic, oregano, dried oregano, and dried parsley into the crock-pot.
- Add ground beef and sausage (if using) to the crock-pot.
- Turn the crock-pot to high and cook until the sauce is thick and flavors meld, about 4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding red wine or a dash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also elevate the dish. For a thicker sauce, allow it to cook longer or use less liquid. This recipe pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Italian Hamburgers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for added flavor. It also goes well with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a unique twist, try pairing it with Muffuletta(In A Bun) for a delicious sandwich option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months; simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Spaghetti Sauce And Meat Balls contains roughly 558 calories, with 28g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (159% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (133% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 461mg per serving (20% 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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes should work well. Blanch and peel them before cooking to enhance the sauce's texture and flavor. Just be aware that using fresh tomatoes may require additional cooking time to reach the desired thickness.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Absolutely! This sauce actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day or two ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove before serving, and consider adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.
Is it possible to make this sauce vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this sauce vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and sausage. Use lentils or mushrooms as a substitute for a hearty texture. Additionally, ensure that the tomato soup and paste are free from meat products to keep the dish entirely plant-based.
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).