As the chill of evening sets in, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs filling your home. Picture this: you’ve had a long day, and you’re craving something hearty, but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. These meatballs are your answer—juicy, packed with flavor, and effortlessly easy to prepare. Just whip up the meatball mixture in advance, toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it do the magic while you unwind.
Perfect for gathering friends or family around the dinner table, these flavorful meatballs transform a classic chili into a delightful twist that’s sure to please everyone. Plus, they offer endless versatility—switch up the meats or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Get ready for a cozy night in with a meal that cooks itself and leaves you more time to enjoy what really matters!
Why are Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs a must-try?
Simplicity: The preparation is a breeze—mix, layer, and let your slow cooker do the work!
Flavorful punch: Packed with spices and fresh ingredients, each bite bursts with rich, savory goodness.
Versatile options: Customize meat types or spice levels based on your mood, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Make-ahead convenience: Prep the night before for a hassle-free dinner, perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a night with friends, these meatballs are sure to impress! Consider trying them served over rice or with cornbread for an extra treat.
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs Ingredients
For the Meatballs
• Ground Turkey – Provides a lean protein base for the meatballs; feel free to substitute with ground chicken or lean ground beef for added flavor.
• Onion Powder – Enhances the meatball flavor; freshly ground is preferred for the best taste.
• Garlic Powder – Adds aromatic depth to the meatball mixture, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for general seasoning, adjust to taste for a perfectly balanced flavor.
For the Chili Sauce
• Diced Tomatoes – Forms the essential sauce base; using San Marzano enhances sweetness in your Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs.
• Tomato Sauce – Integrates into the chili, creating a rich consistency that keeps everything moist.
• Yellow Onion – Freshness and texture; diced into 1/2-inch pieces for even cooking throughout.
• Mushrooms – Introduces earthy flavor and moisture; make sure to slice them before adding to the pot.
• Black Beans – Adds both protein and fiber; remember to drain and rinse before use for best results.
• Frozen Corn – Brings sweetness and texture; there’s no need to thaw before throwing them into the mix.
For the Spicing
• Chili Powder – Adds the desired spice; adjust quantity based on how fiery you want the chili to be.
• Ground Cumin – Deepens the chili flavor; essential for achieving that authentic taste you love.
These Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs will warm your heart and home, making dinner time a delightful experience!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs
Prep Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form 20-24 walnut-sized meatballs, ensuring they are consistent in size for even cooking.
Prepare Vegetables: Dice the yellow onion and slice the mushrooms into thin pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and add great texture to the chili.
Mix Spices: In a separate bowl, blend the remaining garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and ground cumin. This spice mix will infuse delightful flavors into your dish.
Layer in Slow Cooker: Start by placing the meatballs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, yellow onion, mushrooms, black beans, and frozen corn on top.
Add Spices: Sprinkle your spice mixture evenly over the layers in the slow cooker. Gently stir to combine, taking care not to break the meatballs.
Cook: Cover and set your slow cooker to high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-4 hours. You’re looking for the meatballs to be cooked through and the vegetables to be tender.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your chili and adjust any seasonings as needed. It should be bursting with flavor and just the right amount of spice!
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of shredded cheese before serving for an extra touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatball mixture and form the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep them fresh. Additionally, slice the mushrooms and dice the onions the night before, storing them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, layer the prepped ingredients in the slow cooker along with the remaining spices and canned ingredients. Simply set it to cook and return to a delicious, hearty meal waiting for you after a long day. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll save time without sacrificing flavor!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
As these delightful meatballs simmer away, let’s consider some perfect accompaniments that will elevate your meal.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness pairs beautifully with the zesty chili, providing a comforting backbone to the dish.
Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet and fluffy muffins bring a lovely contrast to the savory meatballs, making each bite a delightful experience.
Baked Sweet Potato Wedges: Their natural sweetness and crispy edges add both nutrition and a satisfying crunch, perfectly balancing the dish.
Tortilla Chips: Crispy and salty, they make a wonderful pairing for scooping up meatballs, adding a fun texture to your meal.
Coleslaw: A refreshing side with a hint of tanginess complements the warm, hearty chili. The crunch adds an appealing contrast to the meatballs.
Fresh Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado provides a cool, rich element that enhances the spices of the chili and brings it all together beautifully.
Chilled Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks are essential to balance the warm flavors of the chili. Their lightness cuts through the richness of the meal.
Just imagine gathering around the table with these additions, making your Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs not just a meal, but a memorable experience!
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs
Fridge: Store your Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date for easy reference!
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then warm on the stovetop over medium heat or use the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Flavor Development: Remarkably, the flavors of these meatballs intensify with time, making them even more delicious after a day or two!
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs Variations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and customize these meatballs to suit your palate!
Ground Beef: Swap the turkey for ground beef for a richer flavor profile. It pairs beautifully with the spice blend.
Spicy Kick: Increase chili powder or mix in diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Just be mindful of the heat level!
Vegetarian Style: Use plant-based meat substitutes or skip the meat altogether by adding more beans and lentils. It’s equally delightful!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the meat mixture for a vibrant freshness. This elevates the dish beautifully.
Sweet Corn Variation: Substitute frozen corn with black-eyed peas for a funny twist that introduces new flavor dimensions.
Cheesy Delight: Mix shredded cheese directly into the meatball mixture for added creaminess. It melts perfectly during cooking!
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor that takes your chili to a whole new level.
Sweet & Spicy: Add a touch of brown sugar or honey along with the tomato sauce for a sweet contrast that balances the spiciness.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs
Meatball Consistency: Ensure meatballs are uniform in size, about the size of a golf ball, for even cooking and a perfect texture.
Browning Bonus: Consider browning the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This enhances flavor and helps them hold their shape better.
Liquid Levels: If your chili is too thin post-cooking, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
Spice Control: Adjust the chili powder to customize your heat level. Start with a smaller amount; you can always add more!
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef, and swap out veggies based on preference for these Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs!
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs Recipe FAQs
What type of meat should I use for the meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic choice for these Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs due to its lean properties. However, if you’re looking for something richer, feel free to swap it out for ground chicken or lean ground beef. Each option brings its own unique flavor to the dish!
How should I store the leftovers?
To keep your Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just let them cool completely before sealing to maintain their deliciousness!
Can I freeze the meatballs? How?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to keep your Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs handy for future meals. To freeze, let the meatballs cool after cooking, and then portion them into freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. Be sure to label with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
What if my chili is too watery?
Very! If your chili turns out too watery, don’t fret. Simply remove the lid of the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes. This allows excess liquid to evaporate, thickening the chili to that perfect consistency. You can also use a potato masher to break up some beans or vegetables, helping to create a heartier texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, there are several alternatives you can consider. For a gluten-free option, ensure your spices are gluten-free. Also, you can substitute the black beans with a different bean variety if allergies are a concern. For added flavor and texture, sautéed bell peppers or zucchini can easily replace mushrooms for those who prefer not to use them.
How can I adjust the spice level?
The more the merrier! Adjusting the spice level in your Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs is as easy as modifying the amount of chili powder you use. Start with a smaller quantity, perhaps 1 tablespoon, and taste before adding more to reach your desired heat. If you like it spicier, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form 20-24 walnut-sized meatballs.
- Dice the yellow onion and slice the mushrooms into thin pieces.
- In a separate bowl, blend the remaining garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and ground cumin.
- Place the meatballs at the bottom of the slow cooker, then layer diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, yellow onion, mushrooms, black beans, and frozen corn on top.
- Sprinkle your spice mixture evenly over the layers in the slow cooker, and gently stir to combine.
- Cover and set your slow cooker to high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-4 hours.
- Taste your chili and adjust any seasonings as needed.