Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs in Homemade Tomato Sauce

Name: Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs in Homemade Tomato Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 3 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon ground fennel; ¼ teaspoon sugar; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon cold butter, cut into small pieces; 1 pound lean ground turkey; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon ground fennel; 2 garlic cloves, finely grated; ¼ cup packed baby spinach, very finely chopped; 3 tablespoons gluten-free breadcrumbs; 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Cooked spaghetti or hoagies, for serving; Grated Parmesan cheese and/or mozzarella, for topping; Chopped fresh basil or pesto, for garnish

By:

dani

Published:

October 9, 2025

[grow_share_buttons]

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs in Homemade Tomato Sauce (Gluten Free) are such a fantastic dish for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Picture this: you toss together a few simple ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your evening. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with warmth and delicious aromas, wrapping you in comfort. The best part? These meatballs are gluten-free and incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of fresh herbs and garlic. Plus, homemade tomato sauce means healthier and better-tasting food than anything from a can.

If you’re someone who enjoys cooking or just loves good food, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to whip up this dish. You can serve these tender meatballs over spaghetti for a classic Italian meal, put them in a hoagie for a tasty sandwich, or even enjoy them all by themselves. Let’s roll up our sleeves and make some irresistible meatballs!

Why This Recipe Works

Using a slow cooker is a game changer for making turkey meatballs. It allows lean meat to become tender over hours of low cooking. You won’t end up with dry meatballs; instead, they will be juicy and flavorful. Adding fresh herbs and garlic elevates the taste, giving depth and richness to the entire dish. Plus, when you cook them in homemade tomato sauce, you guarantee a healthier and much more flavorful alternative to store-bought versions.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs in Homemade Tomato Sauce (Gluten Free)

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You can set it and forget it, letting the slow cooker do all the hard work. Not only is it gluten-free, but it also provides a delicious option that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. The versatility of this meal shines through as you can serve it over pasta, in sandwiches, or simply enjoy it on its own. It fits any occasion and satisfies every palate. What’s not to love?

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth experience.

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
3 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon ground fennel
¼ teaspoon sugar
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon cold butter, cut into small pieces
1 pound lean ground turkey
1 teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon ground fennel
2 garlic cloves, finely grated
¼ cup packed baby spinach, very finely chopped
3 tablespoons gluten-free breadcrumbs
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cooked spaghetti or hoagies, for serving
Grated Parmesan cheese and/or mozzarella, for topping
Chopped fresh basil or pesto, for garnish

Assembling the Sauce

Combine the Ingredients

In your slow cooker, pour in the crushed tomatoes, letting them settle at the bottom. Next, add the smashed garlic cloves, dried oregano, ground fennel, and sugar. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper, which will enhance the flavors. Finally, scatter the small pieces of cold butter over the mixture — it adds a rich creaminess to the sauce.

Forming the Meatballs

Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey with the remaining dried oregano, ground fennel, grated garlic, finely chopped spinach, gluten-free breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and the beaten egg. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Gently stir the mixture together, being careful not to overwork it, which could lead to tougher meatballs.

Shape the Meatballs

Now it’s time to get your hands a little messy! Form the mixture into 16 meatballs, about the size of golf balls. They might stick a bit, so handle them with care. Once shaped, nestle the meatballs directly into the sauce in a single layer within the slow cooker.

Cooking and Serving

Cook the Meatballs

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook. You’ll want to go for about 2 ½ to 3 ½ hours on low, or 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours on high. You’ll know when they’re ready — they’ll be thoroughly cooked and super tender.

Serve and Enjoy

After cooking, serve the meatballs over a plate of spaghetti or inside warm hoagies. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or melty mozzarella on top adds extra flavor, while a garnish of fresh basil or a drizzle of pesto brings it all together.

Tips for Success

Be sure your turkey is fresh and lean. It helps keep the meatballs tender.
Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture. This keeps them light and fluffy.
Feel free to customize the seasoning based on your personal taste.

Serving Suggestions

To make a complete meal, consider serving with a fresh side salad. For a hearty sandwich option, pile the meatballs in hoagies. If you’re feeling adventurous, try topping them on creamy grits for a delicious southern twist.

Variations

Looking for some changes? Substitute lean ground turkey with lean ground beef for a different flavor. You can also mix in diced bell peppers or mushrooms into the sauce for extra veggies. If you want a unique taste, switch up the cheese to feta or goat cheese.

Storage Tips

After enjoying your meal, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Having these on hand makes for a quick and easy meal later.

Pairing Ideas

Consider pairing this dish with a light red wine, like Pinot Noir, to enhance the flavors. A side of garlic bread also complements the meal wonderfully.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can replace ground turkey with lean ground beef, chicken, or pork.

2. How do I store leftover meatballs and sauce?
Store in airtight containers, and they last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These meatballs freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep.

4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, feel free to make the sauce in advance and store it either in the fridge or freezer.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Enjoy this comforting and delicious recipe that brings together the joy of home-cooked meals with the convenience of a slow cooker. Whether piled over pasta or nestled in a hoagie, these Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs in Homemade Tomato Sauce (Gluten Free) are bound to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.