Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs in Creamy Country Gravy Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, consider sautéing the onions in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker, although this is optional.

Adding a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary can also enhance the rustic, country-style profile of the gravy if desired, providing an extra layer of aromatic complexity to the final dish.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry or a roux during the final 30 minutes of cooking. Be sure to stir gently to avoid breaking the meatballs apart, as they will be very tender by the end of the cooking process.

Variations

• Spicy Country Meatballs: Add one tablespoon of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the gravy before cooking to provide a subtle, warming heat that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
• Mushroom and Onion: Include a cup of sliced cremini mushrooms alongside the onions. The mushrooms will absorb the gravy and add an earthy, savory depth that pairs beautifully with the turkey meatballs.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheat

Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until hot throughout.

Store any leftover meatballs and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Ensure the food cools to room temperature for no more than two hours before placing it in the fridge to maintain safety and quality. The leftovers will remain delicious for up to three days when properly chilled.

This dish is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator. When you are ready to cook, simply place the insert into the slow cooker base and start the cooking cycle as directed in the recipe.

Serving ideas

Serve these meatballs hot, directly from the slow cooker or transferred to a warmed serving dish.

They pair exceptionally well with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up the extra gravy, or over a bed of buttered egg noodles for a classic, comforting meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

For a lighter accompaniment, serve the meatballs alongside steamed green beans or roasted carrots.

These vegetables provide a nice textural contrast to the soft meatballs and creamy sauce, rounding out the meal with fresh flavors that complement the richness of the country-style gravy without overpowering the main dish.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Turkey Meatballs in Creamy Country Gravy

Prep 5 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 10 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 24 count frozen precooked turkey meatballs
• 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups prepared country gravy

Instructions

1. Place the frozen precooked turkey meatballs into the base of the slow cooker, spreading them out into an even layer to ensure they heat through consistently during the long cooking process.
2. Scatter the sliced yellow onions over the meatballs, then sprinkle the black pepper evenly across the top to distribute the seasoning throughout the dish as it cooks.
3. Pour the prepared country gravy over the meatballs, onions, and pepper. Ensure the gravy covers the meatballs as much as possible to keep them moist while they simmer.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours until the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and the onions are soft and tender.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

18 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

22 g

Fiber

1.5 g

Sugar

2 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.