There’s nothing quite like coming home to the comforting aroma of a hearty meal simmering in the slow cooker. Picture this: you’ve had a long day, and the thought of preparing an elaborate dinner feels overwhelming. Enter the Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs—your new favorite answer to easy weeknight meals. With a delightful blend of spices and the satisfying texture of tender meatballs, this recipe turns a classic comfort dish into a simple and customizable delight.
The best part? These meatballs are incredibly forgiving, allowing you to adjust ingredients to fit your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you prefer lean turkey, chicken, or beef, you can create a dish that feels like home. So, let’s dive into this low-effort, high-reward recipe that promises to please everyone at the dinner table while saving you precious time in the kitchen!
Why will you love Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
Easy Preparation: No need for culinary experience—just mix and shape!
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is packed with savory spices, ensuring happiness in every mouthful.
Customize to Your Liking: Swap proteins or tweak spice levels to suit everyone’s preferences.
Time-Saving: Set it and forget it! Enjoy your day while your meal cooks itself.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, sure to impress your guests!
Embrace the joy of effortless cooking with these delicious slow cooker chili meatballs for your next easy weeknight meal.
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs Ingredients
• Discover everything you need for a mouthwatering meal!
For the Meatballs
- Ground Turkey – Opt for 85-93% lean for juiciness; can be substituted with ground chicken or lean ground beef for variety.
- Onion Powder – Adds depth of flavor; freshly ground preferred for better taste.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances savory notes; adjust based on your personal preference.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Key seasonings for flavor enhancement; adjust to taste.
For the Chili Base
- Diced Tomatoes – Acts as the base of the chili sauce; San Marzano recommended for richness.
- Tomato Sauce – Adds creaminess to the chili; balances out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Black Beans – Introduces heartiness and fiber; must be drained and rinsed beforehand.
- Frozen Corn – Offers sweetness and crunch; can be added directly without thawing.
Vegetable Additions
- Yellow Onion – Fresh component for sweetness; will be diced for even cooking.
- Mushrooms – Adds umami and texture; sliced for uniform cooking.
For the Spices
- Chili Powder – Provides heat and spice; adjust the quantity for your desired level of spiciness.
- Ground Cumin – Essential for authentic chili flavor; do not omit for best results.
These Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs are not only delicious but incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect addition to your weeknight rotation!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs
Prep Meatballs: In a medium bowl, combine ground turkey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Form 20-24 walnut-sized meatballs, making sure to wet your hands for easier shaping.
Prepare Vegetables: While shaping the meatballs, dice the yellow onion and slice the mushrooms to ensure even cooking.
Mix Spices: In a small bowl, mix any remaining onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, and cumin for an even distribution of spices throughout the dish.
Layer Ingredients: Place the shaped meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce over them, followed by the onions, mushrooms, black beans, and frozen corn. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly and stir gently to combine.
Cooking: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-4 hours until the meatballs are cooked through and the chili is gently simmering. Adjust seasoning before serving if needed.
Optional: Serve with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a bright finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
When you think about chili meatballs, your mind might wander to a cozy dinner table with comforting sides that echo the warmth of your main dish.
- Rice Pilaf: The fluffy grains soak up the savory sauce, enhancing the meal’s richness while adding a perfect textural contrast.
- Warm Tortillas: Soft tortillas are ideal for scooping up these delightful meatballs, transforming them into personal chili wraps brimming with flavor.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw balances the dish with a refreshing bite, complementing the rich and hearty chili wonderfully.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn pairs beautifully with the spices in the meatballs, adding a fun sweetness that rounds out the meal.
- Crispy Baked Potatoes: Their crispy skins and fluffy interiors provide a delightful contrast to the tender meatballs, making each bite memorable.
- Avocado Salad: A simple salad of ripe avocado, lime, and cilantro refreshes the palate and enhances the overall dining experience.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce, the gooey cheese and buttery garlic create a delightful indulgence.
- Pint of Light Beer: A cold, light beer can cut through the spiciness, providing a refreshing contrast that’s perfect for casual gatherings.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: To finish on a sweet note, this rich dessert offers a luxurious end to a savory meal, leaving everyone satisfied.
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your dish to delight your taste buds!
- Protein Swap: Try ground chicken or lean beef instead of turkey for a different flavor.
- Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Increase chili powder or add jalapeños for more heat to tantalize your palate.
- Bean Variety: Substitute black beans with kidney or pinto beans for a twist on texture and flavor.
- Herbal Highlights: Mix in fresh cilantro or parsley right before serving for a refreshing touch.
- Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for richness and tanginess.
- Sweetness Factor: Add a sprinkle of brown sugar or honey to balance out the spices if desired.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces and seasonings are gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.
The beauty of these Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs is that they can truly reflect your family’s favorites!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs are an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and forming them into balls, then refrigerate them covered. Additionally, chop the onions and slice the mushrooms ahead of time—store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. On the day of serving, simply layer the meatballs in the slow cooker with the other ingredients, add the diced tomatoes, and let it cook. This approach ensures that everything retains its freshness and flavors, giving you a deliciously hearty meal with minimal effort during a busy weeknight!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs
- Perfectly Sized Meatballs: Aim for walnut-sized meatballs to ensure they cook evenly throughout. Larger meatballs may remain undercooked in the center.
- Browning for Flavor: Searing the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker can enhance their flavor and help them hold their shape.
- Adjusting Consistency: If your chili looks too watery, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes. This will help evaporate excess liquid for a thicker consistency.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your heat preference. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s hard to take it away!
- Storage Savvy: These Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and taste even better after the flavors meld. Store in an airtight container for optimal freshness.
- Freezing for Later: If you have leftovers, they freeze beautifully! Portion them out and enjoy a ready-made meal by thawing and reheating when needed.
Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; the flavors will develop even more over time for a tastier meal.
Freezer: These chili meatballs freeze exceptionally well for up to 3 months. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs again with ease!
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground meat is best for Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
I recommend using ground turkey, ideally 85-93% lean for a moist and juicy texture. You can also substitute it with ground chicken or lean ground beef if you prefer, but be mindful that different meats can affect the flavor and texture of the meatballs.
How should I store leftovers from Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
Store your delicious meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s wonderful because the flavors actually deepen over time, making each bite even more enjoyable as the days progress!
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
Absolutely! These meatballs freeze beautifully. Portion them into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
What can I do if my chili looks watery?
No worries! If you find your chili too runny, remove the lid of your slow cooker in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will allow some of the liquid to evaporate, resulting in a thicker, more satisfying chili consistency. Just stir occasionally and keep an eye on it!
Are Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs safe for my pet?
While some ingredients like turkey and vegetables are safe, it’s essential to avoid any seasoning or ingredients that are harmful to pets, such as garlic or onions in large quantities. Always consult your veterinarian regarding human foods before sharing with your furry friend.
What if I can’t find diced tomatoes?
If diced tomatoes are unavailable, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or tomato puree for a different texture. Just keep in mind, it may change the thickness of your chili slightly. Adjust the spices accordingly, and it will still be delicious!
Savory Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs for Easy Weeknight Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine ground turkey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Form 20-24 walnut-sized meatballs.
- While shaping the meatballs, dice the yellow onion and slice the mushrooms.
- In a small bowl, mix any remaining onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, and cumin.
- Place the shaped meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce over them, followed by the onions, mushrooms, black beans, and frozen corn. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly and stir gently.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-4 hours until cooked through.