Hearty Meatball Stew

I tried this one out of my crockpot book and DH has been asking for this at least twice per month. He loves it! I use the 93% beef because the less fat the better. The low salt and Lactose free milk are what I use, feel free to use what ever you like.

• Ready In: 6 hrs 20 mins
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 3  lbs  93% lean ground beef or 3  lbs ground turkey
• 1  cup  Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 4  eggs
• 1⁄2 cup 2% low-fat milk
• 1⁄4 cup romano cheese, grated
• 2  teaspoons salt
• 2  teaspoons pepper
• 2  tablespoons olive oil
• 2  cups water
• 2  cups beef broth, low salt
• 1 (14 1/2ounce) can stewed tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (12 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1  cup carrot, chopped fine
• 1  cup onion, chopped
• 1⁄4 cup celery, chopped
• 1  tablespoon  italian seasoning

Directions

1. Combine beef, bread crumbs, eggs, milk, cheese, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
2. Mix well.
3. Form into 2 inch round balls.
4. Heat oil in skillet over medium high heat until hot.
5. Brown meatballs on all sides.
6. Add remaining ingredients to 5 or 6 quart crock-pot or slow cooker and stir well.
7. Add meatballs to crock-pot and mix gently to coat meatballs.
8. Cover and cook on low 4 to 6 hours or on high 2 to 4 hours.
9. Serve on top of spaghetti or serve just plain with extra cheese sprinkle on top and garlic bread.