Cooking frozen meatballs in a crockpot can be one of the easiest and most convenient ways to make a delicious meal. Not only is it incredibly fast, but you don’t have to worry about undercooking or burning them. Plus, you get the added bonus of having your house smell like heaven as they slow cook away! But with all this convenience comes an important question: How long do you actually need to cook frozen meatballs in the crockpot for? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — depending on factors such as size, type of meatball and even what else is cooking alongside them — but with some tips and tricks you’ll learn how to ensure that your tasty treats come out perfectly cooked every time. Keep reading to find out how long to cook frozen meatballs in crockpot!
What Are Frozen Meatballs?
Frozen meatballs are a convenient and time-saving way to enjoy the same delicious flavors of a home-cooked meal without having to spend hours in the kitchen. They can be served as an appetizer or main dish, adding flavor and texture to any meal. Prepared frozen meatballs consist of ground beef, pork, veal and other ingredients that vary based on their origin. The cooked balls are then individually quick-frozen so they can be easily stored until they’re ready to be used. With minimal prep work needed, frozen meatballs are a great way to enjoy your favorite meals quickly and hassle free.
What Brand Of Frozen Meatballs Are Best?
When cooking frozen meatballs in a crockpot, it’s important to use good quality, high-quality brands of frozen meatballs. Look for brands that are low in fat and sodium content and ensure the ingredients list is clear and easy to understand.
Also make sure that the brand you choose uses fresh spices and herbs instead of artificial flavorings. With so many brands on the market, it can be hard to decide which one is best:
- Best Overall – Rosina Italian 26-oz Frozen Meatballs
- Best for Budget – Great River Food Cooked Beef 11-oz Frozen Meatball
- Best for Spaghetti – Carando Fresh Abruzzese Italian Style 16-oz Frozen Meatballs
Are Meatballs Best Frozen Cooked Or Uncooked?
Generally, it’s best to cook frozen meatballs in a crockpot rather than leaving them uncooked. This is because the slow and steady cooking process ensures that the meatballs are evenly cooked all the way through. Cooking them from a frozen state also helps keep their shape intact during the cooking process and prevents them from drying out or falling apart.
How Long To Cook Frozen Meatballs In Crockpot?
The exact cooking time for frozen meatballs in a crockpot will vary based on the size and type of meatball. Generally, it’s best to cook them 2.5 hours on high or 4 hours on low or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
When checking for doneness, make sure to measure the temperature in the center of the meatballs using an instant-read thermometer. If they don’t reach the desired temperature, cook them for a little longer until they are fully cooked through.
How To Cook Frozen Meatballs In A Crockpot?
Crockpot cooking is an easy and delicious way to enjoy frozen meatballs without spending too much time in the kitchen!
- Simply pop them in your slow cooker with either spaghetti sauce or bbq sauce, cover it up, and let simmer for at least 6 hours.
- This delicious dish can easily be served to a crowd by switching on ‘warm’ after 8 hours max. Enjoy!
Tips For Cooking Frozen Meatballs In A Crockpot
To ensure your frozen meatballs are cooked perfectly, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Use only high-quality brands of frozen meatballs.
- Check the internal temperature of the meatballs with an instant-read thermometer.
- Use either spaghetti sauce or BBQ sauce for added flavor.
- Stir in a few tablespoons of liquid such as water or broth to prevent the sauce from burning.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 2.5-4 hours until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the slow cooker switch to the ‘warm’ setting after 8 hours max.
- Serve with a side of mashed potatoes, pasta, or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
Variations For Cooking Frozen Meatballs
Frozen meatballs can be cooked in a variety of ways including baking, frying, and grilling. Each method will result in slightly different textures and flavors.
Can You Cook Frozen Meatballs Without Defrosting?
Not usually , as frozen meatballs need to be thawed before cooking. Thawing them in the refrigerator overnight is the safest way to do this, but you can also quickly thaw them by running cold water over them in a bowl or placing them in a sealed Ziplock bag and submerging it into cold, salted water.
Once they are thawed, they should be cooked immediately. Do not refreeze them after they have been thawed!
How To Tell When Frozen Meatballs Are Done?
When cooking frozen meatballs, the best way to tell when they are done is to measure their internal temperature using an instant-read thermometer. The safest internal temperature for cooked meatballs is 165°F (74°C).
If you don’t have a thermometer, then look for an even brown color on the outside and make sure that they are cooked all the way through.
Once they have reached the desired temperature and doneness, remove them from the heat immediately. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
How To Store, Freeze, And Reheat Cooked Meatballs?
Cooked meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months, making them a great make-ahead option!
To freeze cooked meatballs, simply place them in a sealed Ziplock bag and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, defrost them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly defrost them by running cold water over them in a bowl.
To reheat, simply place the frozen meatballs on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10 minutes until they are heated through. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Put Frozen Uncooked Meatballs In The Crockpot?
Yes, you can put frozen uncooked meatballs in the Crockpot. However, it is important to choose high-quality brands of frozen meatballs and cook them for at least 6 hours on low or 2.5 hours on high until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Will Meatballs Fall Apart In A Slow Cooker?
No, most high-quality brands of frozen meatballs should not fall apart in a slow cooker when cooked correctly. If you are unsure of the quality, it is best to check their internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer.
Can You Slow Cook In 4 Hours?
Yes, you can slow cook frozen meatballs in 4 hours on the high setting. However, it is best to check the internal temperature of the meatballs with a thermometer to ensure they are cooked through and safe to eat. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. Let the slow cooker switch to ‘warm’ setting after 8 hours max.
Can You Overcook Frozen Meatballs?
Yes, it is possible to overcook frozen meatballs. Cook them for the recommended time and check their internal temperature with a thermometer to ensure they are cooked through and safe to eat. Once the desired doneness is reached, remove them from the heat immediately so they do not become dry or tough.
Are Costco Frozen Meatballs Cooked?
No, Costco frozen meatballs are not cooked. They must be thawed before cooking and should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.
What Are The Best Frozen Meatballs Out There?
The best frozen meatballs are those that are high-quality, with natural ingredients and no preservatives or additives. Look for brands that have simple, recognizable ingredients like beef, pork, breadcrumbs, and herbs. You can also check the label to make sure they are gluten-free and/or organic if needed.
Do Meatballs Get More Tender The Longer You Cook Them?
No, meatballs do not get more tender the longer you cook them. In fact, they can become dry and tough if overcooked. It is best to check the internal temperature with a thermometer to ensure they are cooked through and safe to eat before removing them from the heat source. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Is It Better To Sear Or Bake Meatballs?
It really depends on your preference. Baking is a great way to get evenly-cooked, juicy meatballs with minimal effort. Searing them in a skillet first can add flavor and texture, but the cooking time will be longer overall. Whichever method you choose, make sure to check the internal temperature of the meatballs with a thermometer to ensure they are cooked through and safe to eat before serving.
Why Are Swedish Meatballs So Good?
Swedish meatballs are a traditional dish that originated in Sweden. They are made with a combination of ground beef and pork, diced onion and garlic, allspice or nutmeg, and breadcrumbs. This unique flavor profile is what makes them so delicious! They are usually served with lingonberry jam and mashed potatoes for an authentic Swedish experience.
In Summary
It is important to know how long to cook food so that it is both safe and delicious to eat. In the case of frozen meatballs in a crockpot, you should cook them for at least 3 hours on high or 6 hours on low. By following these guidelines, you can be assured that your meatballs will be cooked through and will be heated evenly throughout. This will help to prevent any food borne illness as well as ensuring that your meal is tasty and enjoyable. So next time you’re looking for an easy and convenient way to cook your frozen meatballs, remember to set your crockpot accordingly! Follow Quara Ethiopian Restaurant for more tips!
How Long To Cook Frozen Meatballs In Crockpot At Home?
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 1-2 bag frozen meatballs
- 1 jar spaghetti sauce
Instructions
- Place the meatballs in a slow cooker with either spaghetti sauce or bbq sauce.
- Cover and let simmer for at least 6 hours.
- After 8 hours, switch to 'warm'.
Video
Notes
- Check the internal temperature of the meatballs with an instant-read thermometer.
- Use either spaghetti sauce or BBQ sauce for added flavor.
- Stir in a few tablespoons of liquid such as water or broth to prevent the sauce from burning.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 2.5-4 hours until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
