Name: Giant Slow Cooker Meatballs with Spaghetti Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/2 lb. ground beef (85/15); 1/2 lb. Italian sausage (mild, sweet, or hot); 1 large egg, slightly beaten; 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan; 1/4 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 26 oz. jar marinara sauce; 12 oz. spaghetti

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 75 reviews

If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug, then you are going to absolutely love this Giant Slow Cooker Meatballs with Spaghetti Recipe. Imagine tender, flavorful, oversized meatballs slowly simmered in rich marinara sauce, paired perfectly with al dente spaghetti that soaks up every bit of sauce. This dish turns a classic family favorite into a simple but impressive meal that can practically cook itself while you go about your day. It’s perfect for those who want all the flavor with minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl filled with four round meatballs, placed evenly inside the bowl. The meatballs have a coarse texture with visible bits of white and red throughout, indicating mixed ingredients. The inside of the bowl has small bits and smudges of the meat mixture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but essential to creating those juicy, tender meatballs and that delicious tomato sauce base. Each element plays a key role in building up the warmth, texture, and flavor your taste buds will thank you for.

Ground beef (1/2 lb): Adds a rich, meaty depth that forms the hearty base of your meatballs.
Italian sausage (1/2 lb): Brings a burst of seasoning and moisture, keeping the meatballs incredibly juicy.
Large egg (1, slightly beaten): Acts as the perfect binder, holding all the meatball ingredients together.
Plain breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Provide structure and light texture without overpowering other flavors.
Grated Parmesan (1/4 cup): Offers a nutty, savory punch that elevates the meatballs’ taste profile.
Onion powder (1/4 tsp): Adds subtle sweetness and depth without chunks getting in the way.
Garlic powder (1/4 tsp): Infuses the meatballs with comforting aromatic warmth.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances every element’s flavor, balancing the dish perfectly.
Marinara sauce (26 oz jar): The luscious tomato sauce that envelops those meatballs in vibrant flavor.
Spaghetti (12 oz): A classic pasta choice that pairs beautifully with the sauce and meatballs.

How to Make Giant Slow Cooker Meatballs with Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs

Start by combining the ground beef, Italian sausage, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt in a large bowl. Using your hands is the best way to mix everything evenly without overworking the meat. Once combined, divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into one large meatball. This size is what makes them “giant,” so don’t be shy about the portions.

Step 2: Arrange Meatballs and Add Sauce

Place each giant meatball into your slow cooker. Pour the marinara sauce on top, making sure to coat each meatball as much as possible. The sauce might not cover the meatballs entirely, but that’s totally fine—steam will build up during cooking and help cook the meat evenly.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on high for about 3 hours. For a more leisurely approach, you can cook on low for 6 to 7 hours. The key is to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of at least 160ºF for safety and juiciness. After this slow cooking process, the meat will be tender, flavorful, and infused with the richness of the sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

When your meatballs are nearing completion, boil water and cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. Drain the spaghetti thoroughly to avoid any unnecessary sogginess.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Carefully remove the giant meatballs from the slow cooker using a large spoon or spatula. Add the cooked spaghetti into the slow cooker to toss it gently in the remaining marinara sauce. Divide the sauced spaghetti among plates, and crown each one with one giant meatball. Now you’re ready to dig into some serious comfort food bliss.

How to Serve Giant Slow Cooker Meatballs with Spaghetti Recipe

A shiny black pot is filled with a deep red tomato sauce, with several large round meatballs partially submerged inside. One meatball is lifted above the others on a silver spoon, showing a textured, slightly crispy brown surface mixed with shades of red sauce. The background is a white marbled texture, giving a clean and bright contrast to the dark pot and rich colors of the meatballs and sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a touch of bright color and fresh flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the rich sauce. Don’t be shy with extra grated Parmesan cheese either—its salty tang really enhances each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar to bring in some lightness and crunch. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette are also fantastic for sopping up any leftover sauce—you won’t want to waste a single drop!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the dish family-style on a large platter, placing the spaghetti in the center and arranging the giant meatballs on top for an impressive centerpiece. Alternatively, plate it in deep bowls to enjoy the warmth and coziness of the sauce in every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow your leftover meatballs and spaghetti to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, they’ll stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making for an easy lunch or dinner option throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the meatballs and sauce mixture separately from the pasta to maintain texture. Place the meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Cook fresh spaghetti or reheat leftover pasta in the microwave or on the stove, then combine to enjoy a meal that tastes just as good as the first time.

FAQs

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef and sausage?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative. Just be sure to add a little extra seasoning or fat, like olive oil, since poultry tends to be leaner and can dry out more easily during slow cooking.

Do I need to brown the meatballs before adding them to the slow cooker?

Nope! This recipe skips browning to save time. The slow cooker does a fantastic job cooking the giant meatballs thoroughly while absorbing the sauce’s flavor, making browning optional rather than necessary.

What if my slow cooker isn’t big enough for these large meatballs?

If your slow cooker is on the smaller side, you can either make smaller meatballs or cook the meatballs in batches. Keep in mind that the cooking time may slightly vary with size adjustments.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce instead of store-bought?

Definitely! Homemade marinara brings a fresh, personalized touch to this dish. Feel free to swap it in to tailor flavors to your liking—it’ll only increase that homemade love factor.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The safest way is to use an instant-read thermometer. You want the internal temperature to reach at least 160ºF. If you don’t have a thermometer, just make sure the meatballs are firm and no longer pink inside when cut.

Final Thoughts

This Giant Slow Cooker Meatballs with Spaghetti Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites for a reason. It’s easy, satisfying, and brings all the heartiness you want in a meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish offers unbeatable comfort and flavor. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new go-to weeknight dinner!