The aroma of cumin and garlic fills the kitchen, instantly transforming your cozy space into a haven of comfort. When the weather turns chilly or after a long day at work, nothing warms the heart quite like my Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs. This recipe effortlessly combines tender meatballs with a zesty chili sauce, making it a go-to for feeding family or entertaining friends without breaking a sweat. What’s even more delightful is its versatility—the choice of ground turkey, chicken, or beef allows you to customize it to your taste preferences.
Simply toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you attend to other tasks. Whether you serve these savory meatballs over rice, encapsulated in tortillas, or even atop loaded nachos, each bite promises warmth and satisfaction. Perfect for busy weeknights, this forgiving recipe ensures delicious results every time, making it easy to bring homemade goodness into your routine. So, grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into this flavorful adventure!
Why choose Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
Simplicity at Its Best: The easy prep means just a few minutes of your time before the slow cooker does the rest.
Versatile Options: Adapt the recipe with ground turkey, chicken, or beef to cater to your family’s preferences.
Flavor Harmony: Enjoy tender meatballs simmered in a rich, zesty chili sauce infused with cumin and garlic.
Effortless Entertainment: Perfect for gatherings, this dish can easily satisfy a crowd without demanding hours of your attention.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare in advance, refrigerate, or even freeze portions for quick meals later—ideal for busy weeknights.
This recipe is a true game changer for anyone looking to enjoy homemade flavors without the hassle!
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delicious meal with these flavorful ingredients.
For the Meatballs
- Ground Turkey – A lean protein choice that remains tender; substitute with ground chicken for a lighter option or ground beef for richer flavor.
- Yellow Onion (1 medium) – Freshly diced to enhance sweetness and texture; shallots work as a fine alternative if needed.
- Garlic Powder – Adds a savory punch to the meatballs; freshly ground provides the best taste.
For the Chili Sauce
- Diced Tomatoes (28 oz) – This forms the base of the sauce; opt for San Marzano for unparalleled flavor.
- Tomato Sauce (15 oz) – Thickens the chili and amplifies tomato flavor; feel free to replace it with extra diced tomatoes.
- Frozen Corn (1 lb) – Adds a delightful sweetness and texture; fresh corn is a wonderful substitute if available.
- Black Beans (15 oz) – Contributes notable protein and fiber; remember to rinse and drain for optimal consistency.
- Chili Powder (1 tbsp) – The soul of chili flavor; adjust to your spice preference for added heat.
- Ground Cumin (1 tbsp) – Deepens the chili’s authenticity; try not to substitute for the best results.
- Mushrooms (8 oz) – For an extra umami kick and texture; zucchini can be used as a tasty alternative.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential to season your dish; always adjust to taste for the perfect balance.
With these ingredients, preparing your Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs will surely lead to a comforting, hearty meal everyone will love!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs
Prepare Meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground turkey with garlic powder and onion powder, mixing gently until well incorporated. Form into 20-24 walnut-sized meatballs and set them aside on a plate.
Prep Vegetables: Dice the yellow onion and slice the mushrooms into bite-sized pieces, releasing their rich flavors. Set aside alongside the meatballs.
Mix Spices: In a separate bowl, combine the remaining garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and ground cumin. Stir together for an even distribution of those wonderful spices.
Layer in Crockpot: Place the meatballs in a single layer at the bottom of the crockpot. Pour diced tomatoes and tomato sauce over them, then add the onions, mushrooms, black beans, and frozen corn. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly on top. Stir gently, being careful not to break the meatballs.
Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-4 hours. You’re looking for the meatballs to be cooked through and the vegetables tender; they should be bright and aromatic.
Finish and Serve: Taste the chili for seasoning adjustments. Serve warm, either over rice, wrapped in tortillas, or even as hearty nachos—whatever your heart desires!
Optional: Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, or avocado for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your taste buds for a delicious twist!
- Dairy-Free: Replace any cheese toppings with a drizzle of dairy-free sour cream for a similar creamy effect.
- Whole30 Approved: Use ground chicken or turkey with compliant ingredients, eliminating all beans and corn for a healthier alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the heat level and ignite your taste buds.
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute meatballs with lentils or chickpea patties for a hearty, plant-based experience.
- Rich Flavor Boost: Incorporate diced bell peppers or roasted poblano for a sweeter flavor and colorful presentation.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats to make the meatballs while keeping the rest of the flavor intact.
- Sweet Twist: Add a spoonful of brown sugar or maple syrup into the chili sauce for a slightly sweet balance against the spices.
- Texture Variety: Mix in some chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds for an unexpected crunch amidst the tender meatballs.
Let your creativity shine and enjoy your personalized version of Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs
Perfect Meatball Size: Ensure your meatballs are golf ball-sized to guarantee even cooking; larger sizes may stay raw in the center.
Browning for Flavor: Brown the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot; this enhances their flavor and helps them maintain shape.
Gentle Stirring: Stir the contents gently halfway through cooking to prevent meatball breakage while evenly distributing spices throughout the dish.
Thickening the Chili: If your chili turns out too watery, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken it to your desired consistency.
Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder based on your spice preference—more for heat, less for a milder flavor.
These expert tips will help you achieve the best Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs every time!
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. The flavors will deepen and improve with time, making each meal even more delightful.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze your meatballs in individual portions for up to 3 months. This makes it easy to pull out a serving whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm in a pot on the stovetop or microwave. If the chili has thickened in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up for the perfect consistency.
Defrosting: Always defrost your frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best flavor and texture.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
Indulging in a bowl of rich, comforting chili meatballs is perfectly complemented by these sides and treats that elevate your meal experience.
Fluffy Rice: Serves as the perfect base for the zesty chili, soaking up all those delicious flavors while adding a subtle taste of comfort.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: Great for scooping, these chips add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender meatballs and rich sauce.
Creamy Avocado Salad: The smoothness of the avocado and refreshing veggies balances the hearty chili, making each bite bright and harmonious.
Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and tender cornbread mellows the spiciness of the chili, providing a comforting contrast that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Savory Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the chili, adding a rustic touch to your meal.
Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty rice adds a bright note, harmonizing beautifully with the spices in the chili for a delightful explosion of flavor.
Classic Coleslaw: This crunchy salad offers a refreshing and tangy counterpart, enhancing the overall meal with its crisp texture.
Drink Pairings: A chilled lager or a fruity soda complements the spiciness of the chili, providing a refreshing counterpart that everyone will enjoy.
Each of these sides brings something special to your Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs, ensuring a delightful dining experience that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking, which not only saves you time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For even longer storage, consider freezing the formed meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just place the frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients and adjust the cooking time to an additional 30 minutes. This way, you’ll maintain the quality and taste of your slow cooker chili meatballs, making dinner easy and delightful!
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ground meat for the meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a lean option that keeps the meatballs tender. You can also substitute it with ground chicken for a lighter taste, or choose lean ground beef for a richer flavor. Make sure to check the freshness of the meat; it should have a firm texture and a bright color, without any dark spots.
Can I store leftover Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
Very much so! Refrigerate your meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve as they sit, making for a delightful second meal. If you’re looking to save some for later, freezing is a fantastic option!
What’s the best way to freeze and reheat the chili meatballs?
To freeze, portion the meatballs and sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags—ideally portioned for easy reheating. Ensure all air is removed to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, defrost overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed for moisture.
What should I do if my chili is too watery?
If you find your chili is watery after cooking, don’t worry! Simply remove the lid from your crockpot for the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will allow excess liquid to evaporate, resulting in a thicker, heartier chili that will cling beautifully to the meatballs.
Can my pet have any of these ingredients?
It’s essential to be cautious! Some ingredients like onions and garlic can be toxic to dogs and cats. If you’re considering sharing the meatballs with your pet, be sure to remove any onions, garlic, or seasoning from their portion. Always consult your vet if unsure about specific ingredients.
How can I customize the spice level of my Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
The flavor is truly in your hands! You can increase the chili powder to make the chili spicier, or add some fresh jalapeños while cooking for an extra kick. Just start with small amounts and taste as you go, ensuring it suits your family’s palate!
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs for Effortless Weeknight Comfort
Equipment
- - Slow cooker
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb Ground Turkey or ground chicken/beef
- 1 medium Yellow Onion diced
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
For the Chili Sauce
- 28 oz Diced Tomatoes preferably San Marzano
- 15 oz Tomato Sauce
- 1 lb Frozen Corn or fresh corn
- 15 oz Black Beans rinsed and drained
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder adjust for spice
- 1 tbsp Ground Cumin
- 8 oz Mushrooms sliced
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine ground turkey with garlic powder and onion powder, mixing gently until well incorporated. Form into 20-24 walnut-sized meatballs and set them aside on a plate.
- Dice the yellow onion and slice the mushrooms into bite-sized pieces, releasing their rich flavors. Set aside alongside the meatballs.
- In a separate bowl, combine the remaining garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and ground cumin. Stir together for an even distribution of those wonderful spices.
- Place the meatballs in a single layer at the bottom of the crockpot. Pour diced tomatoes and tomato sauce over them, then add the onions, mushrooms, black beans, and frozen corn. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly on top. Stir gently, being careful not to break the meatballs.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-4 hours. You're looking for the meatballs to be cooked through and the vegetables tender; they should be bright and aromatic.
- Taste the chili for seasoning adjustments. Serve warm, either over rice, wrapped in tortillas, or even as hearty nachos—whatever your heart desires!