What To Know
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the M&M’s have melted slightly.
- Serve the cooked meatballs warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as a main course with a side of your choice.
- Add a spoonful of peanut butter to the meatball mixture for a peanut buttery twist.
Are you craving delectable, juicy meatballs that burst with a sweet and savory explosion in every bite? Look no further than this comprehensive guide on how to cook irresistible M&M meatballs in the comfort of your slow cooker.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup M&M’s candies
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, onion, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
2. Form the Meatballs: Roll the meatball mixture into 1-inch balls. You should have approximately 24 meatballs.
3. Place in Slow Cooker: Grease the bottom of your slow cooker with a little cooking spray. Place the meatballs in a single layer in the slow cooker.
4. Add M&M’s: Sprinkle the M&M’s evenly over the meatballs.
5. Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the M&M’s have melted slightly.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the cooked meatballs warm with your favorite dipping sauce or as a main course with a side of your choice.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs:
- Use a lean ground beef: This will prevent the meatballs from becoming too greasy.
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture: Overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
- Make sure the meatballs are cooked through: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F.
- Add your own seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences.
Sauces to Pair with M&M Meatballs:
- Sweet and Sour Sauce: Mix equal parts soy sauce, brown sugar, and ketchup. Add a little garlic powder and ginger for extra flavor.
- Honey Mustard Sauce: Combine honey, Dijon mustard, and a little bit of mayonnaise.
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce.
Variations on M&M Meatballs:
- Chocolate M&M Meatballs: Use chocolate M&M’s instead of regular M&M’s for a richer flavor.
- Peanut Butter M&M Meatballs: Add a spoonful of peanut butter to the meatball mixture for a peanut buttery twist.
- Bacon-Wrapped M&M Meatballs: Wrap each meatball with a slice of bacon before cooking.
What to Serve with M&M Meatballs:
- Pasta: Serve the meatballs over a bed of spaghetti or penne pasta.
- Rice: Pair the meatballs with a side of fluffy white rice or brown rice.
- Vegetables: Roast or sauté your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, or potatoes, to accompany the meatballs.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use frozen meatballs?
A: Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Simply thaw them before cooking.
Q: Can I cook M&M meatballs in the oven?
A: Yes, you can cook them in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Q: Can I make M&M meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can form the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
