There’s nothing quite like the rich, savory scent of chili wafting through the kitchen, instantly transforming a humble weeknight into something special. When I first tossed those tender meatballs into the slow cooker, a burst of excitement filled the air, blending notes of garlic, cumin, and just the right amount of spice. These Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs have become my go-to dish for gathering friends and family around the table, easiness and flavor all in one.
What I adore about this recipe is its versatility—you can switch between ground turkey or beef, and customize the heat level to suit your palate. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or prepping for an impromptu gathering, this hearty meal comes together effortlessly while you relax. Dive into a bowl of these zesty meatballs and immerse yourself in a comforting dish that embraces everything we love about homemade cooking!
Why are Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: The rich, savory blend of garlic, cumin, and chili powder delivers a comforting dish that warms the soul.
Effortlessly Delicious: Simply mix and toss everything in the slow cooker—no complicated steps or techniques required.
Customizable: Switch between ground turkey or beef and adjust the spice level to achieve your perfect flavor profile.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for cozy family dinners or lively gatherings, these meatballs are sure to impress.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare in advance and let the flavors develop overnight, making weeknight cooking a breeze!
Dive into my guide on How To Make a Hearty Meal that will inspire even more delicious creations!
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs Ingredients
For the Meatballs
• Ground Turkey – Main protein source; leaner than beef and maintains great flavor; can swap for ground chicken or beef if desired.
• Onion Powder – Adds depth; freshly ground offers a perfect flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder – Elevates the savory notes in the meatballs wonderfully.
For the Sauce
• Diced Tomatoes – Provides moisture and acidity; San Marzano varieties bring out the best flavor.
• Tomato Sauce – Enhances texture and brings the sauce together with diced tomatoes.
For Texture
• Black Beans – A protein-packed addition; rinse and drain for best results.
• Frozen Corn – Adds a pop of sweetness and color; no need to thaw!
• Mushrooms – Introduces umami richness and satisfying texture.
For Flavor
• Chili Powder – This potent spice is vital for heat; adjust according to your taste for bidirectional spices in these slow cooker chili meatballs.
• Ground Cumin – Essential for that authentic chili flavor that is simply irresistible.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Basic seasonings that elevate the overall taste; adjust to your liking.
Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or a dinner party, these ingredients come together beautifully in the slow cooker for a scrumptious meal that’s sure to delight!
How to Make Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs
Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, gently combine ground turkey with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Shape the mixture into 20-24 walnut-sized meatballs, ensuring they’re uniform for even cooking.
Prepare Veggies: While forming the meatballs, dice the onion and slice the mushrooms. This step will add extra flavor and texture to your chili sauce!
Combine Spices: In a separate bowl, mix any remaining garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and ground cumin. This spice blend is key to enhancing the meatballs’ flavor.
Layer Meatballs: Place the meatballs in the slow cooker in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and remain intact throughout the process.
Add Sauce Ingredients: Top the meatballs with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced onions, sliced mushrooms, black beans, and frozen corn, creating a colorful and hearty dish.
Sprinkle Spices: Evenly sprinkle the spice mixture over the top of the ingredients in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine without breaking the meatballs.
Cook: Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-4 hours. You want the meatballs to be cooked through and the vegetables tender.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Feel free to add more salt or a dash of extra chili powder for more flavor.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of cheese before serving for an added touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs Variations
Feel free to experiment with these delightful twists that take your Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs to the next level!
Ground Chicken: Substitute ground turkey with ground chicken for a lighter option while retaining tasty flavor and moisture.
Beef Upgrade: For richer taste, use ground beef instead of turkey; it deepens the chili’s overall richness.
Spicy: Increase heat by adding chopped jalapeños or adjusting chili powder to suit your personal spice tolerance.
Sweet Corn: Swap frozen corn for fresh corn kernels in late summer for an extra burst of sweetness and freshness.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace meat with cooked lentils or chickpeas for a plant-based adaptation that’s hearty and filling.
Italian Twist: Blend in Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a unique flavor profile; it pairs beautifully with the chili spices!
Smoky Flavor: Add a touch of smoked paprika to the spice mix for a subtle, smoky depth that enhances each bite.
Cheesy Indulgence: Mix shredded cheese into the meatball mixture or sprinkle it on top before serving for a wonderfully gooey finish.
Experiment and savor the variations that resonate with your taste buds—happy cooking!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatballs (shaped and seasoned) up to 24 hours in advance by placing them in an airtight container and refrigerating. Additionally, you can chop the veggies (onion and mushrooms) and store them in the fridge, making dinner assembly a breeze. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the meatballs in the slow cooker with the remaining sauce ingredients and spices, and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-4 hours. This prep not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring your meal is just as delicious on a busy weeknight!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs
Meatball Size: Keep meatballs around golf-ball size to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their shape during the cooking process.
Browning for Flavor: For an extra boost of flavor, consider browning the meatballs in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker. This step enhances their taste and prevents them from breaking apart.
Gentle Handling: Stir the ingredients gently after adding them to the slow cooker. Over-stirring can lead to breaking the meatballs, affecting their texture in these Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs.
Thickening Tip: If your chili turns out too watery, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking. This allows some of the liquid to evaporate, resulting in a thicker sauce.
Spice Adjustment: Tailor the spice level to your liking by adjusting the amount of chili powder used. Adding diced jalapeños is another great way to increase heat if desired.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
Transform your dinner with delightful accompaniments that balance heartiness, flavor, and warmth.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes offers a perfect contrast to the flavorful meatballs, absorbing the rich chili sauce beautifully.
Fresh Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread pairs wonderfully with the spicy meatballs, offering a satisfying crunch and great for scooping up the chili.
Zesty Coleslaw: A crispy, tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the meatballs while providing a burst of color.
Spicy Jalapeño Corn Muffins: These flavorful muffins add an extra bite of heat, making them a delightful pairing that complements the chili undertones.
Baked Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasting sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness, making them a great contrast to the savory meatballs and chili-rich sauce.
Quinoa Salad: Fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh veggies and a light dressing provides a nutritious and textural balance to the meal, working harmoniously with the flavors.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the saucy goodness of the meatballs, creating a cozy, comforting experience.
Crisp Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing palate cleanser, making it easier to indulge in those hearty meatballs.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp white wine complements the spice of the meatballs and adds a touch of elegance to your meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs
Fridge: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days; the flavors deepen overnight, making this an excellent make-ahead dish.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months; when ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep the dish moist.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving slow cooker chili meatballs at room temperature for longer than 2 hours to maintain food safety.
Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs Recipe FAQs
What type of meat should I use for the Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic choice for these meatballs, providing a lean protein source while keeping them moist. However, you can easily swap it for ground chicken or ground beef depending on your preference. If you desire a richer flavor, I recommend using ground beef, which can make your meatballs extra delicious!
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
These Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve as they sit! When reheating, do it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave—just add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. If freezing, portion them out for up to 3 months, thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I freeze the Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
Yes, indeed! Freezing is a great way to prolong their life. After cooking, allow them to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or plastic bags. I suggest laying meatballs flat in freezer bags for easier storage. When ready, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
What if my chili is too watery?
No worries! If you find your chili is on the watery side, simply remove the lid of the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes of cooking. This allows excess liquid to evaporate, thickening your sauce nicely without compromising those tender meatballs. Remember to stir gently to keep them intact!
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this recipe?
It’s always wise to check! The ingredients in these Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs include common allergens like garlic and onions, which can be harmful to pets. If you have specific allergies, always substitute or omit ingredients as necessary and consult your physician or a nutritionist for tailored advice.
How spicy can I make the Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs?
Very! These meatballs are customizable to fit your spice preference. Adjust the chili powder according to your taste. If you crave more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or additional chili powder during the cooking process for an extra kick. Just remember—start small and taste as you go for the best results!
Irresistible Slow Cooker Chili Meatballs for Easy Weeknight Wins
Equipment
- - Slow cooker
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound Ground Turkey Can swap for ground chicken or beef if desired.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Adds depth; freshly ground offers a perfect flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Elevates the savory notes in the meatballs wonderfully.
For the Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) Diced Tomatoes San Marzano varieties bring out the best flavor.
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce Enhances texture and brings the sauce together.
For Texture
- 1 can (15 oz) Black Beans Rinse and drain for best results.
- 1 cup Frozen Corn Adds sweetness and color; no need to thaw!
- 1 cup Mushrooms Introduces umami richness.
For Flavor
- 2 tablespoons Chili Powder Adjust according to your taste.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Essential for that authentic chili flavor.
- to taste Salt Basic seasoning.
- to taste Black Pepper Basic seasoning.
Instructions
Steps
- In a bowl, gently combine ground turkey with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Shape into 20-24 walnut-sized meatballs.
- While forming the meatballs, dice the onion and slice the mushrooms.
- In a separate bowl, mix any remaining garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and ground cumin.
- Place the meatballs in the slow cooker in a single layer.
- Top the meatballs with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced onions, sliced mushrooms, black beans, and frozen corn.
- Evenly sprinkle the spice mixture over the ingredients and stir gently.
- Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 3-4 hours.
- Before serving, taste the chili and adjust seasoning as needed.