Description
These Paleo slow-cooker meatballs are tender, juicy, and simmered in a rich tomato garlic sauce that develops incredible flavor while they cook low and slow. Made without breadcrumbs or dairy, they’re perfect for Paleo, Whole30-style eating, or anyone wanting a healthier comfort-food meal. Toss them over zucchini noodles or enjoy them straight from the slow cooker for an easy, satisfying dinner.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or beef and pork mix)
- 1 egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 1 (24 oz) jar Paleo-friendly marinara sauce (no added sugar)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Direction
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, almond flour, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and onion powder.
- Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Form the mixture into 1 to 1½-inch meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and lightly brown the meatballs on all sides for about 2–3 minutes. (This step adds flavor but can be skipped if short on time.)
- Pour the marinara sauce into the slow cooker and stir in basil, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic.
- Place the browned meatballs into the sauce and gently stir to coat.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Serve warm with fresh herbs, zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or roasted vegetables.
Optional Tips / Variations
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner Paleo option.
- Add finely grated zucchini to the meat mixture for extra moisture and nutrients.
- Serve over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or spaghetti squash for a full Paleo meal.
- For extra flavor, add fresh basil or oregano just before serving.
- Make them spicy by increasing the red pepper flakes or adding diced jalapeño to the sauce.
