Crockpot Creamy Tuscan Meatball Stew

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage, removed from casings
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 (10 ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step

1. In a large bowl, combine Italian sausage, ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Brown the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. This step enhances flavor.

5. Transfer the browned meatballs to a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.

6. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

7. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

8. Pour the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth into the skillet. Stir to combine.

9. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then pour it over the meatballs in the slow cooker.

10. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.

11. Stir in the thawed and squeezed dry spinach, heavy cream, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.

12. Cover and cook for another 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

13. Stir in the fresh basil just before serving.

14. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy!

Making the Perfect Meatballs

Choosing Your Meat

The foundation of any great meatball stew is, of course, the meatballs themselves. The combination of Italian sausage and ground beef offers a balanced flavor profile.

The sausage lends a savory, spiced element, while the ground beef provides a hearty base. You can use ground chuck or even ground sirloin depending on your preference for fat content.

Experiment with using different types of sausage, such as sweet Italian sausage, if you prefer a milder flavor.

Binders and Seasonings

Bread crumbs and an egg are crucial for binding the meatballs together. The bread crumbs absorb excess moisture, preventing the meatballs from becoming too dense.

Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami richness. Garlic powder and dried oregano provide essential Italian flavors.

Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Salt and pepper are paramount, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Browning for Flavor

Browning the meatballs before adding them to the slow cooker is a critical step.

This process, known as the Maillard reaction, creates a deep, savory crust that significantly enhances the overall flavor of the stew.

Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when browning. This will ensure that the meatballs brown properly rather than steam. Work in batches for the best results.

Building the Tuscan-Inspired Sauce

The Tomato Base

The sauce is the heart and soul of the stew. Using both crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes provides a multifaceted texture.

Crushed tomatoes create a smooth, rich base, while diced tomatoes add chunks of juicy tomato flavor. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best taste.

Enhancing with Broth

Chicken broth adds depth and complexity to the sauce. It helps to thin out the tomato base and creates a more flavorful cooking liquid for the meatballs.

You can substitute vegetable broth if you prefer, but chicken broth generally complements the meat flavors better.

The Tuscan Touch

Sun-dried tomatoes are a key ingredient in Tuscan cuisine, and they bring a concentrated burst of sweet and tangy flavor to the stew.

Make sure to drain the oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes well before chopping them and adding them to the stew.

Fresh basil adds a vibrant, herbaceous note that brightens up the entire dish. Stir it in just before serving to preserve its fresh flavor.

Creamy Goodness and Finishing Touches

Adding the Cream

The heavy cream is what transforms this meatball stew into a creamy Tuscan delight. It adds richness, smoothness, and a touch of decadence.

Stir in the heavy cream towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from curdling. This will ensure a smooth, velvety sauce.

Spinach for Nutrients and Color

Spinach is a great addition to this stew, adding both nutrients and a pop of color. Be sure to thaw and squeeze the spinach dry before adding it to the slow cooker.

This will prevent excess moisture from diluting the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Crockpot Creamy Tuscan Meatball Stew hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and extra fresh basil.

It’s delicious served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or even polenta. Crusty bread is also a great accompaniment for soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Slow Cooker Success Tips

Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker

While slow cookers are convenient, it’s important not to overcrowd them. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a diluted sauce.

If you have a large batch of meatballs, consider using two slow cookers or cooking in batches.

Adjust Cooking Time as Needed

Slow cookers can vary in temperature, so it’s important to check the stew periodically and adjust the cooking time as needed.

The meatballs should be cooked through and tender, and the sauce should be thick and flavorful.

Thawing Spinach Correctly

Ensure the spinach is thoroughly thawed and squeezed dry. Excess water will impact the sauce’s consistency.

You can use your hands or a clean kitchen towel to remove as much moisture as possible.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Option

To make this stew vegetarian, substitute the meatballs with plant-based meatballs or hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant.

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Spicy Kick

For a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture.

You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Cheese Variations

Experiment with different types of cheese. Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a touch of mozzarella can add unique flavors.

Stir the cheese in towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from becoming stringy.

FAQ

Can I freeze Crockpot Creamy Tuscan Meatball Stew?

Yes, this stew freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Absolutely. This stew is even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, you can use frozen meatballs in this recipe. However, browning them first will enhance the flavor. If using pre-cooked frozen meatballs, reduce the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use different vegetables?

Certainly! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots to the stew. Add them along with the onion and garlic.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?

If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can omit them or substitute them with a tablespoon of tomato paste for added depth of flavor.