Mozzarella Stuffed Slow Cooker Meatballs

Juicy, cheesy, and simmered to perfection, Mozzarella Stuffed Slow Cooker Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food. Each meatball is a savory surprise, with melty mozzarella tucked inside a tender blend of beef and sausage. Slow-cooked in rich marinara sauce, these meatballs are bursting with Italian flavor and make a show-stopping main dish for family dinners, game day gatherings, or cozy nights in.

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and big payoff. It’s like your favorite meatball sub and lasagna had a delicious baby. If you’ve tried our Slow Cooker Italian Chicken, you know how easy and satisfying crockpot meals can be—this one’s about to become your next obsession. Let’s roll!

What is Mozzarella Stuffed Slow Cooker Meatballs?

Mozzarella Stuffed Slow Cooker Meatballs—say that three times fast! These meatballs are exactly what they sound like: seasoned meatballs with gooey mozzarella cheese hidden inside, slow-cooked in a classic marinara sauce. It’s the kind of hearty dish that gets everyone excited for dinner. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a cheesy surprise in the middle of a juicy meatball? As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—and these meatballs are definitely heart-stealers. Try them once and they’ll be on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This:

There are so many reasons to fall in love with Mozzarella Stuffed Slow Cooker Meatballs:

• Cheese-stuffed delight: Melty mozzarella inside every bite? Yes, please.
• Slow-cooked perfection: Cooking them low and slow locks in all the flavor.
• Meal-worthy and money-saving: Make a whole batch at home for a fraction of the restaurant price.

If you enjoy our Cheesy Baked Ziti, you’ll appreciate the gooey, hearty satisfaction these meatballs deliver. Add this recipe to your meal prep list and make your week deliciously cheesy!

How to Make Mozzarella Stuffed Slow Cooker Meatballs

Quick Overview

This is a set-it-and-forget-it recipe with a fun twist—literally! You’ll roll up a delicious mix of meats and seasonings, stuff them with mozzarella, then let your slow cooker handle the rest. In just a couple of hours, you’ll have tender, flavorful meatballs swimming in a sea of marinara. No oven required!

Ingredients:

• Fresh mozzarella, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb ground Italian sausage
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 jar Prego Traditional sauce (or similar marinara)

Step-by-Step:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, sausage, garlic powder, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, milk, and parsley. Mix with your hands or a spoon until fully combined.
2. Scoop about 1.5 inches of meat mixture and form into a ball.
3. Press one cube of mozzarella into the center of the meatball, then roll the meat around the cheese to seal it in.
4. Repeat with the remaining meat and mozzarella.
5. Pour 1/3 of the marinara sauce into the bottom of your slow cooker.
6. Add a single layer of meatballs over the sauce, spaced slightly apart.
7. Cover with another layer of sauce, then add another layer of meatballs if needed.
8. Repeat until all meatballs and sauce are used.
9. Cover and cook on High for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until meatballs are fully cooked and the cheese is melted.

What to Serve Mozzarella Stuffed Slow Cooker Meatballs With:

These meatballs are versatile! Serve them over spaghetti or penne for a classic Italian meal, or on toasted hoagie rolls with melted provolone for a delicious sub sandwich. Add a side salad or garlic bread and you’ve got a complete feast. They also make a great party appetizer—just stick a toothpick in each one and serve on a platter!

Top Tips for Perfecting Mozzarella Stuffed Slow Cooker Meatballs

• Seal the cheese well: Make sure no mozzarella is peeking out to prevent leaks.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: It adds a richer, nuttier flavor.
• Want a leaner version? Use ground turkey instead of beef.
• No fresh mozzarella? Substitute with low-moisture mozzarella or even string cheese cut into chunks.
• Add heat: Toss in crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat. These meatballs also freeze beautifully—just let them cool completely, then freeze in sauce. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet or the slow cooker.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of using a slow cooker? Yes! Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, or until fully cooked.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken? Absolutely. Just make sure to add extra seasoning for flavor.

How do I know when they’re done? Use a meat thermometer—internal temp should be 165°F.

What’s the best way to keep them warm for a party? Keep them on the “Warm” setting in the slow cooker during serving.

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! Prep and shape the meatballs, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to cook.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Stuffed Slow Cooker Meatballs are the kind of meal that turns any night into a special occasion. With gooey cheese inside and rich sauce all around, they’re a comfort food dream come true. Perfect for pasta night, meal prep, or party appetizers, these meatballs deliver big flavor with little effort. Give them a try and watch them disappear!