My children’s cheers for “meatball night” are the best review any cook could ask for. I love watching them devour these tender, savory bites, knowing they are enjoying a meal packed with lean protein and hidden vegetables. These Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs have become a cornerstone of our weekly dinner rotation, especially on those chaotic afternoons when I need a healthy, hands-off meal that practically cooks itself. They are the perfect answer for anyone searching for a truly easy crockpot meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for health.
Finding delicious diabetic friendly recipes that the whole family will love can feel like a challenge, but this one is a guaranteed win. The meatballs simmer in a rich, sugar free sauce, making them an ideal fit for a low carb or cardiac diabetic diet food list. Whether you’re crafting a diabetic friendly meal plan or just want a simple, nourishing dinner, this recipe delivers comfort and nutrition in every single bite. For more inspiration, explore our complete guide to Crockpot Meals for Diabetics.
Table of Contents
Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (4 meatballs each) 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
My children’s cheers for meatball night are the best review any cook could ask for. These tender, savory Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs are packed with lean protein and hidden vegetables, making them a perfect healthy dinner that practically cooks itself. They’re diabetic-friendly, low carb, and family-approved.
Ingredients
For the Turkey Meatballs:
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground turkey (93/7 works best)
- ½ cup almond flour (or whole wheat breadcrumbs if not strictly low carb)
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sugar Free Sauce:
- 1 (24-ounce) jar of sugar free marinara sauce
- ½ cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Combine the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so stop as soon as the ingredients are incorporated.
- Form the Meatballs: Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and roll it into about 20-24 evenly-sized meatballs, roughly 1 ½ inches in diameter. This consistent size ensures they all cook through at the same time.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly spray the insert of your slow cooker with olive oil for easy cleanup. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar free marinara sauce, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and onion powder. Pour about a third of this sauce mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Cook to Perfection: Carefully place the formed turkey meatballs into the slow cooker in a single layer. Pour the remaining sauce over the top, gently shaking the crock to distribute it. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or on HIGH for 2 hours. The meatballs are done when they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Notes
This recipe is incredibly adaptable to various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, it is naturally gluten-free as written with almond flour. For dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a nutritional yeast substitute. Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs
Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs come together with simple, wholesome ingredients. I often double the batch to have leftovers for easy diabetic meal recipes throughout the week.
For the Turkey Meatballs:
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground turkey (93/7 works best)
- ½ cup almond flour (or whole wheat breadcrumbs if not strictly low carb)
- ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sugar Free Sauce:
- 1 (24-ounce) jar of sugar free marinara sauce
- ½ cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 4 hours on LOW or 2 hours on HIGH
- Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes
This recipe is about 30% faster than traditional oven-baked meatballs because you don’t have to stand over a skillet browning them in batches.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs
Making these keto meatballs is a straightforward process. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, infusing them with flavor while you go about your day.
Step 1: Combine the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so stop as soon as the ingredients are incorporated.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and roll it into about 20-24 evenly-sized meatballs, roughly 1 ½ inches in diameter. This consistent size ensures they all cook through at the same time.
Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly spray the insert of your slow cooker with olive oil for easy cleanup. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar free marinara sauce, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and onion powder. Pour about a third of this sauce mixture into the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Carefully place the formed turkey meatballs into the slow cooker in a single layer. Pour the remaining sauce over the top, gently shaking the crock to distribute it. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or on HIGH for 2 hours. The meatballs are done when they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Nutritional Information
This healthy recipe is not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced, making it a fantastic choice for a diabetic diet meal ideas.
- Servings: 6 (approx. 4 meatballs per serving)
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
Ground turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, while the almond flour adds healthy fats and fiber without the carbs of traditional breadcrumbs.
Equipment Needed
You only need a few basic kitchen tools:
- A 6-quart or larger slow cooker
- A large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons these Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs will become a staple in your kitchen.
- Effortlessly Healthy: They are naturally low carb, high in protein, and made with a sugar free sauce, fitting perfectly into recipes for prediabetes or a type 2 diabetes menu.
- Set-It-and-Forget-It Convenience: The slow cooker does all the work, freeing you up for more important things. It’s the ultimate easy crockpot meal.
- Family-Friendly Favorite: Even the pickiest eaters love these tender meatballs. They are a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients without a battle.
- Meal Prep Champion: They reheat beautifully and can be used in so many ways, from topping zucchini noodles to being stuffed into low-carb subs.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
This recipe is incredibly adaptable to various dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free: It is naturally gluten-free as written with almond flour.
- Dairy-Free: Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a nutritional yeast substitute.
- Lower Sodium: Use a no-salt-added marinara sauce and reduce or omit the added salt in the meatball mixture.
- Other Proteins: Ground chicken or a lean ground beef blend can be used in place of turkey. If you enjoy other poultry-based dishes, our Low Carb Pulled Chicken Slow Cooker is another fantastic option.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile meatballs are the star of the plate, but they shine even brighter with the right sides.
- For a classic low carb meal, serve them over a bed of zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- They are delicious alongside a crisp green salad or roasted green beans.
- For a heartier meal, try them with a side of cauliflower mash. They also make a wonderful appetizer for a party, served straight from the crockpot with toothpicks.
- If you love the comfort food aspect of this dish, you might also enjoy our Slow Cooker Cabbage Rolls, which offer a similar cozy satisfaction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few simple tips will guarantee perfect meatballs every single time.
- Overmixing the Meat: This is the most common error. Mix until the ingredients are just combined to avoid dense, tough meatballs.
- Skimping on the Sauce: Make sure there is enough sauce in the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent the meatballs from drying out and to create a delicious gravy.
- Cooking on High for Too Long: While it’s faster, cooking on HIGH for more than 2-2.5 hours can cause the meatballs to become overcooked and rubbery. Low and slow is best for tenderness.
- Using Fatty Ground Turkey: Using a 85/15 blend can result in a greasy sauce. Stick with 93/7 lean ground turkey for the best texture and health profile.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
This recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals.
- Refrigerator: Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Cool the meatballs and sauce completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. For another great freezer-friendly option, our Crockpot Turkey Chili is a wonderful make-ahead meal.
Conclusion
These Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs truly are the healthy, low-carb dinner you will crave. They are proof that managing your health, whether you’re following a diabetic friendly meal plan or simply eating cleaner, does not mean giving up on flavor or comfort. This easy diabetic recipe provides a satisfying, nourishing meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile.
I would love to hear how your meatballs turn out. Leave a comment below and share your experience. Don’t forget to tag @Stacksipsnack on Instagram so I can see your beautiful creations. If you are looking for more simple and delicious ideas, be sure to explore our other diabetic slow cooker recipes like Diabetic Beef and Broccoli Slow Cooker or the comforting Slow Cooker Chicken Vegetable Stew.
FAQs about Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs
Do you have to brown turkey meatballs before slow cooking?
No, browning turkey meatballs before slow cooking is optional but recommended. Browning creates a flavorful crust and helps them hold their shape better, though they will cook through without it.
How long do raw turkey meatballs cook in a slow cooker?
Raw turkey meatballs typically cook in a slow cooker for 2-3 hours on High or 4-6 hours on Low. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Can you put frozen turkey meatballs in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook frozen turkey meatballs in a slow cooker. However, they will require a longer cooking time—plan for an additional 1-2 hours—and ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).
What temperature should slow cooker turkey meatballs be cooked to?
Slow cooker turkey meatballs should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as measured with a meat thermometer, ensuring they are safe to eat.
How do you prevent turkey meatballs from falling apart in a slow cooker?
To prevent turkey meatballs from falling apart, ensure your mixture contains a binder like breadcrumbs and egg. Avoid overworking the meat, make them a consistent size, and optionally brown them lightly beforehand. Don’t stir excessively during cooking.
Do slow cooker turkey meatballs need liquid?
Yes, slow cooker turkey meatballs generally need some liquid (like sauce, broth, or water) to prevent them from drying out and to create a moist cooking environment. The liquid also helps distribute heat evenly.
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