Step 1: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, Parmesan, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together. Be careful not to overwork the mixture—this can make the meatballs tough. You just want to combine everything evenly.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Once everything is mixed, it’s time to form the meatballs. Using your hands, scoop about 1-2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and gently roll it into a ball. Aim for meatballs that are about 1-1.5 inches in diameter. This size will cook perfectly in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs (Optional)

While you can skip this step and cook the meatballs directly in the slow cooker, browning them in a hot skillet first gives them a beautiful golden crust and enhances the flavor. If you have time, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, until they have a nice crust. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked through, as they’ll finish cooking in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While the meatballs are browning (or if you’re skipping this step), it’s time to make the apple butter sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple butter, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. The mustard adds a lovely tang, and the vinegar helps balance out the sweetness of the apple butter.

Step 5: Add the Meatballs to the Slow Cooker

Once the meatballs are browned (or if you’re skipping the browning step), transfer them to the slow cooker. Pour the apple butter sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they’re evenly coated.

Step 6: Slow Cook

Set your slow cooker to low and cook the meatballs for 4 hours, or on high for 2 hours. The low-and-slow method ensures the meatballs stay tender and juicy. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the meatballs are done, give them a quick stir in the sauce to coat them one last time before serving. The sweet apple butter sauce is the perfect complement to the savory meatballs.