Classic Italian Meatballs
Indulge in the timeless comfort of classic Italian meatballs - tender, flavorful, and satisfying. Enjoy the perfect blend of ground meat and herbs in every bite.
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1 Tablespoon ghee
- 2 lbs. ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar preferably a thick syrupy variety
- 1 Tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg lightly beaten
- 1 16 ounce
jar tomato and basil marinara sauce
Instructions
- Heat a heavy bottomed pan over medium heat, sauté the onions until translucent, above 5 to 7 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sautéed onions, garlic, balsamic vinegar, tomato paste, crushed red pepper, Italian seasoning, sea salt, black pepper, and egg.
- Using your hands, mix all the ingredients until they are well incorporated. Shape the mixture into about 2 inch meatballs. This mixture should make between 15 and 17 meatballs.
- Line the bottom off the slow cooker with the meatballs. Pour the marinara sauce into the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 4 to 6 hours,, or until the meat is cooked through.
Notes
Tip: I love using jarred marinara sauce to add more flavor to slow cooker meals. This one is a great option, or you can often find organic marinara sauce with no questionable ingredients at your local health food store. Read the ingredients carefully to find one that only has vegetables, spices, and olive oil.
Links for my favorites: Organic Tomato Paste, 4th & Heart Ghee