Crockpot Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce | Easy and Healthy Dinner

Crockpot Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce – A Healthy, Easy, and Delicious Recipe 

There’s something magical about crockpot cooking. It’s simple, saves time, and fills your home with irresistible aromas as your meal gently simmers away. For busy families, home cooks, and foodies alike, it’s an essential kitchen ally. 

Today, we’re sharing a recipe that checks all the boxes: Crockpot Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce. Packed with lean protein, bursting with flavor, and healthier than traditional meatballs, this dish is perfect for a nourishing dinner with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just beginning your healthy cooking adventure, this recipe will become a staple in your repertoire. 

Simplify your meal planning with easy, healthy, and budget-friendly vegan recipes!

Why Turkey is a Star Ingredient 

Ground turkey is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits, making it a favorite choice for health-conscious cooks. 

• Lean Protein: Turkey is a lean source of protein, helping you feel full and energized without adding excess calories or fat. 
• Nutrient Dense: It’s rich in B vitamins, zinc, and selenium, which support energy levels, immunity, and overall well-being. 
• Heart-Healthy: With lower saturated fat content than beef or pork, turkey is a heart-friendly option. 

For those keeping an eye on calories or looking to maintain a balanced diet, turkey offers a fantastic alternative to higher-fat meats while still delivering mouthwatering flavor. 

The Beauty of Crockpot Cooking 

A crockpot lets you achieve tender, flavorful meals with practically no hands-on time—a lifesaver for busy families and home cooks. 

Here’s why we love crockpot cooking for recipes like this:

• Time-Saving: Prep your ingredients in the morning, set the crockpot, and come home to a perfectly cooked meal. 
• Enhanced Flavor: Slow cooking allows herbs, spices, and aromatics to fully meld together, creating a rich and deep flavor. 
• Meal Prep Friendly:
• Make a double batch and freeze cooked meatballs for easy dinners later.
• Prep the ingredients the night before and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.

Pro tip: Always resist the temptation to lift the lid while cooking! It releases heat and slows down the process. 

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The Recipe Breakdown 

Ingredients 

For the Turkey Meatballs: 

• 1 lb ground turkey 
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (substitute gluten-free if needed) 
• 1 large egg 
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley) 
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning 
• ½ tsp salt 
• ¼ tsp black pepper 

For the Tomato Sauce: 

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes 
• 1 small onion, finely diced 
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 
• 1½ tsp Italian seasoning 
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat) 
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity) 
• Salt and pepper, to taste 

Step-by-Step Instructions 

Prepare the Meatballs: 

Combine all meatball ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Mix gently with your hands until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender. 

Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1½ inches in diameter. 

Prepare the Sauce in the Crockpot: 

Add the crushed tomatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper to the crockpot. Stir to combine. 

Add the Meatballs: 

Gently place the meatballs into the sauce, ensuring each one is partially submerged. 

Cook: 

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The meatballs should be tender and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). 

Serve: 

Once done, gently stir the sauce and meatballs. Serve warm with your choice of sides. 

Simplify your meal planning with easy, healthy, and budget-friendly vegan recipes!

Serving Suggestions 

These turkey meatballs are as versatile as they are delicious. Here are a few ways to enjoy them:

• Classic: Serve over al dente spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. 
• Comforting: Pair with a warm, crusty loaf of bread to soak up the luscious tomato sauce. 
• Light: Plate with a side salad of greens and a tangy vinaigrette. 
• Party-Style: Serve as bite-sized appetizers on toothpicks with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. 

Read more: Easy Black Bean and Turkey Chili | Perfect for Cold Nights

Healthier Ingredient Options (When You Need Them!) 

Customizing this recipe for dietary preferences is a breeze. 

• Gluten-Free: Swap traditional breadcrumbs for gluten-free or almond meal. 
• Low-Carb: Use grated zucchini in place of breadcrumbs in the meatball mixture. 
• Vegan Option: Replace turkey with plant-based meat and omit the Parmesan (or use a vegan alternative). 

Get Creative – Make It Your Own! 

One great thing about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Want extra veggies? Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the tomato sauce. Craving spice? Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce. Feel like experimenting? Swap parsley for basil or thyme for a unique flavor twist. 

Cooking is all about incorporating your unique flair—don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients to suit your palate. 

Change the Way You Cook with This Crowd-Pleaser 

These Crockpot Turkey Meatballs in Tomato Sauce are more than just a meal—they’re a solution to dinnertime stress. This recipe is:

• Healthy 
• Flavor-packed 
• Customizable 
• Family-approved 

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or planning your weekly meals, this dish has you covered. Try it out and share your experience with us—we’d love to see how you’ve made it your own! 

Simplify your meal planning with easy, healthy, and budget-friendly vegan recipes!