Heating meatballs in sauce in a crock pot can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size of the meatballs and the heat setting of the crock pot. Here's a general guideline:
High heat setting: If you set your crock pot to high, the meatballs will typically be heated through and ready to eat in about 2 to 2.5 hours.
Low heat setting: If you choose the low heat setting, it will take around 3 to 4 hours for the meatballs to be fully heated and cooked through.
To ensure the meatballs are cooked safely and thoroughly, it's essential to check their internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 160°F (71°C) for ground beef or pork meatballs, and 165°F (74°C) for ground chicken or turkey meatballs.
Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size and composition of the meatballs and the specific model and performance of your crock pot. It's always a good idea to monitor the cooking process and adjust the time as needed to achieve the desired results. Additionally, using pre-cooked meatballs will reduce the overall cooking time compared to using raw meatballs.