Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Meatballs with Potatoes

When you need a comforting, home-cooked meal with minimal effort, this Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Meatballs with Potatoes recipe will be your new go-to. Imagine tender, juicy meatballs simmering in a rich, silky garlic butter sauce, slowly infusing halved baby potatoes with incredible flavor. It’s the kind of cozy, satisfying dinner that feels like you’ve spent all day in the kitchen — even though your slow cooker did most of the work. Perfect for busy weeknights, family meals, or those evenings when you crave something warm, hearty, and irresistibly buttery.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-off cooking: Prep in minutes, then let the slow cooker handle the rest.
• Rich garlic butter flavor: Every bite is savory, comforting, and utterly delicious.
• Family-friendly: Simple ingredients kids and adults both enjoy.
• One-pot convenience: Meatballs, potatoes, and sauce all cook together.
• Customizable: Add veggies or adjust seasonings easily.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef – Forms tender, juicy meatballs.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs and keep them moist.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory, cheesy depth.
• 1 large egg – Essential binding ingredient.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Provides bold, aromatic garlic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs – Adds balanced seasoning and aroma.
• Salt, to taste – Enhances overall flavor.
• Pepper, to taste – Adds a mild hint of spice.
• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved – Tender potatoes that absorb the garlic butter sauce.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter – The base of the rich, silky sauce.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth – Thins the butter slightly and adds savory depth.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds color and freshness.

How to Make Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Meatballs with Potatoes

1. Prepare the Meatballs

• In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
• Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
• Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
  Tip: Wet your hands lightly to prevent sticking.

2. Layer the Slow Cooker

• Place the halved baby potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.
• Arrange the meatballs gently on top of the potatoes.
  Tip: Don’t pack them too tightly—this ensures even cooking.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Stir in the chicken broth and whisk until smooth and combined.
• Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the meatballs and potatoes in the slow cooker.

4. Slow Cook

• Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until potatoes are tender and meatballs are cooked through.
  Tip: Avoid lifting the lid too often to maintain the cooking temperature.

5. Finish & Serve

• Once done, gently stir to coat everything in the garlic butter sauce.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
• Serve hot and enjoy this rich, comforting dish.

Tips for Success

• Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease in the sauce.
• Don’t skip the Parmesan—it adds great flavor and helps the meatballs hold together.
• Add vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or green beans for a heartier meal.
• Brown the meatballs first (optional) for extra flavor and richer color.
• If the sauce is too thin, whisk in a cornstarch slurry at the end.

Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Meatball Bake: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian seasoning.
• Cheesy Garlic Meatballs: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top during the last 20 minutes.
• Herb Lovers Version: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil.
• Creamy Garlic Sauce: Mix in 1/4 cup heavy cream during the last 15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles.
• Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
• Add crusty bread on the side to soak up the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
• Finish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for added richness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes! No need to thaw—simply place them on top of the potatoes and cook as directed.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Turkey works well, but reduce cook time slightly to prevent dryness.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but choose a larger slow cooker and keep potatoes on the bottom layer.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the meatballs and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before cooking.

How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes—freeze uncooked or fully cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.

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Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Meatballs with Potatoes recipe brings together everything we love about comfort food: tender meat, buttery potatoes, and bold garlic flavor—all with almost no effort. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner, ideal for busy schedules, and easy to customize for your family’s preferences. Give it a try, enjoy the cozy goodness, and feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs or veggies. Happy cooking!