Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup finely minced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 24 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, panko, beaten egg, minced onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands or a fork until just combined; do not overwork the meat to avoid density.
  2. Roll the mixture into meatballs approximately 1.5 inches in diameter.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs in batches, searing for 2-3 minutes per side until a mahogany-colored crust forms.
  4. Transfer the seared meatballs to the slow cooker.
  5. Combine crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and balsamic vinegar, then pour the sauce over the meatballs.
  6. Cover and cook on High for 4 hours or Low for 6 hours until meatballs are cooked through.