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How to Cook Easy Slow Cooker Meatballs with Recipes

Super tasty slow cooker meatball appetizers are also super easy with Jones new All Natural No Antibiotics Ever Pork and Chicken Meatballs that are fully cooked and sold frozen. Since there are no preservatives, these meatballs are free of the USDA Big 9 Allergens including egg, dairy, soy and wheat which means no fillers, binders, milk, cheese or breadcrumbs.

Why Jones frozen meatballs in a slow cooker make for an easy appetizer

Like Jones All Natural Sausage, the meatballs are produced in small batches from only fresh never frozen pork or chicken sourced from local producers in the Midwest and with an in-house made spice blend. The pork meatballs are made from only 5 ingredients, while the chicken meatballs, with a few more spices, only have 7.

Jones Meatballs are also high in protein, offer convenience and incredible versatility since they adapt effortlessly to your taste preferences. Plus, you’re absolutely going to love the homemade flavor.

With the right guidance, Slow Cooker Meatballs are extremely easy to make. Here are answers to some frequently asked cooking questions:

What temperature should I set my slow cooker for meatballs?

Since Jones Meatballs are fully cooked and just need to be reheated, we recommend cooking them on low (or around 170-180°F if you have digital settings).

How long should I cook slow cooker meatballs?

If the meatballs are thawed, you’ll need approximately 2 hours until hot. If frozen, we’d bump up the time another hour to 3 hours.

Can I use frozen meatballs in a slow cooker?

Yes. Jones All Natural No Antibiotics Ever Meatballs are frozen and are wonderful cooked in the slow cooker.

Any additional tips to cook meatballs in a slow cooker?

If you’re cooking the meatballs without a sauce, we recommend adding a small amount of chicken broth to the chicken meatballs as they have less fat. If using a meat thermometer, both the pork and chicken meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 135°F.

How long are the slow cooker meatballs good for?

Remove the meatballs from the slow cooker once they are completely cool. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.

Discover Easy Slow Cooker Recipes for Appetizers, Soups & Stews and Side Dishes too.

One of the main benefits of using a slow cooker is the ease of use. Just add your ingredients and push the button. Here are a few of our favorite mouthwatering slow recipes for meatballs and other Jones products:

Slow Cooker Asian Meatballs Tender slow cooked meatballs infused with a rich Asian sauce and served over fluffy rice.

Slow Cooker Grape Jelly Meatballs Jones Meatballs are cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, allowing them to soak up the rich flavors of grape jelly, barbecue sauce and tomato jam.

Slow Cooker Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Soups and stews are ideal for slow cookers. This spicy favorite is perfect for serving a large group or keeping for leftovers.

Slow Cooker Cheesy Bacon Potato Casserole Don’t forget to use your slow cooker for side dishes too. This creamy casserole features layers of potatoes, Jones Bacon and cheese.

Jones NAE Meatballs can be found in the freezer section in 18-ounce (pork) and 16-ounce (chicken) resealable packages. Learn more about Jones Meatballs here

Visit the Product Finder for the store near you that carries Jones products.

Jones Canadian Bacon at Walmart

Jones Naturally Smoked Canadian Bacon is available at more that 4,000 Walmart locations across the country.

Which size package is available at Walmart: Jones Original Canadian Bacon, 6 oz.

More about Jones Canadian Bacon: The authentic flavor of Jones Canadian Bacon is just as good in a recipe as it is on its own — straight from the package! A good source of lean protein, fully cooked and naturally smoked over real hickory chips, no wonder it’s America’s top-selling Canadian bacon. Click here to find the Walmart store near you.

Nutritional benefits: 3-slice serving contains, 10g protein, 60 calories and is 97% fat free.

Perfect for: an alternative to ham for sandwiches and salads, diced in omelets or scrambled eggs or added to pasta.

Where to find in-store: Typically, in the Bacon & Sausage section of the refrigerator case, also near the refrigerated Breakfast section.

Price: $4.18*

*price may vary per location and/or online.

Nutritional and Ingredient Info for all Jones Products

For more than 135 years, Jones Dairy Farm has been producing all natural sausage, along with a host of other customer favorite breakfast meats, including bacon, Canadian bacon, ham, braunschweiger, scrapple and now meatballs, using real natural Ingredients and simple recipes. Although all nutritional and ingredient information is available throughout our website, we’ve created this handy “cheat sheet” so you quickly and easily find and compare basic Jones product information In one handy chart. Click “Download” below to view the chart.

Nutritional-Information-and-Ingredients-for-JDF-8-14-24Download

For more information or if you have any questions, call our consumer hotline at 1-800-635-6637 to speak to a live customer service representative.

3 High Protein Breakfasts with 20+ Grams of Protein

Starting the day with a well-balanced, protein-rich breakfast has many important health benefits such as curbing appetite, sustaining energy and helping to maintain hormone and blood sugar levels.

Luckily for fans of Jones Dairy Farm, we produce an array of great tasting, high quality meat products that help meet your daily protein needs. From All Natural Sausage and Meatballs to naturally smoked Dry Aged Bacon, Ham, Canadian Bacon, and Braunschweiger too, Jones has the products your family will love for breakfast or any time of day.

Lisa Caras, 7th generation Jones family member and Marketing Director, is a big proponent of eating a high protein breakfast and believes maintaining good eating habits in the morning can help set the tone for the day. However, with a full-time job, two young children and an active lifestyle, she also understands it must be quick and simple to prepare.

Lisa offers three of her favorite high-protein breakfasts ideas, each with only three ingredients but boast 20+ grams of protein.

1. Scrambled Eggs with Cottage Cheese and Chicken Sausage

Ingredients:

Preparation: Mix eggs with cottage cheese in a bowl and then scramble mixture until eggs are cooked through. Heat chicken sausage according to package instructions. Serve hot.

Nutritional Breakdown:

2. Canadian Bacon and Egg Breakfast Sandwich

Ingredients:

Preparation: Toast English muffin. Fry egg using non-stick cooking spray and warm Canadian bacon until heated through, about 30 seconds per side. Assemble sandwich and enjoy.

Nutritional Breakdown:

3. Turkey Sausage, Greek Yogurt with Honey

Ingredients:

Preparation: Heat turkey sausage links per package instructions. Serve with a side of plain Greek yogurt drizzled with honey.

Nutritional Breakdown:

Incorporating protein into your breakfast routine doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. These three recipes are not only quick and easy but also delicious and packed with the protein to start your day off right. Whether you’re a parent juggling a busy schedule or looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle, these breakfast ideas are sure to keep you satisfied and energized until your next meal.

For more delicious protein-packed breakfast recipes, such as this make ahead breakfast sandwich, visit the Jones recipe section.

What Is Dry Aged Bacon? Discover Why Jones Dairy Farm Makes the Best

Jones Dairy Farm is your destination for the finest dry aged bacon. If you’re seeking bacon that bursts with rich flavor and offers a tender yet firm texture, you’re in the right place. In this post, we answer the question, what is dry aged bacon, and explain why Jones Dairy Farm should be your top choice for premium, flavorful bacon.

What is Dry Aged Bacon?

Dry aging is a time-honored technique that enhances bacon’s flavor and texture, creating a more intense, savory bite. But what is dry aged bacon, exactly?

Dry aged bacon is crafted by hanging pork belly in a carefully controlled environment for an extended period — sometimes weeks instead of hours. This process gradually removes moisture, concentrates flavor, and enhances texture. The result? A deep, rich, umami-packed bacon unlike any other.

One of the defining characteristics of dry aged bacon is its bold, complex flavor. The longer it ages, the more pronounced its taste becomes. This makes it a favorite among bacon lovers who appreciate an artisanal, robust experience.

At Jones Dairy Farm, we meticulously dry age our bacon in a custom aging room. Each slice delivers the perfect balance of tenderness and crispiness, thanks to our proprietary process. It takes extra time, but the result is bacon that stands out from the rest.

Why Choose Jones Dairy Farm for Dry Aged Bacon?

Jones Dairy Farm is committed to producing the highest quality, most flavorful dry aged bacon available. Our unique dry aging process is just one of the ways we elevate our bacon above the rest. Here’s what makes Jones Dry Aged Bacon so special:

We also prioritize responsible sourcing. Jones Dairy Farm partners with Wholestone Farms, a collective of 235 multigenerational family farmers across the Midwest, to ensure that only the highest quality pork makes it into our bacon. Learn more about Wholestone Farms here.

When you choose Jones Dairy Farm, you’re selecting a brand that combines passion, expertise, and time-honored techniques to create exceptional bacon.

Experience the Difference with Jones Dry Aged Bacon

Elevate your breakfasts, sandwiches, or any recipe that calls for bacon with Jones Dry Aged Bacon. Taste the difference that comes from generations of craftsmanship and a commitment to quality.

Explore our dry aged bacon offerings here.

Discover dozens of delicious bacon recipes here.

Antibiotics in Meat: What You Need to Know

Clearing Up a Common Misconception

All meat, poultry, and dairy foods sold in the United States are free of antibiotic residues, as required by federal law. This means that even if antibiotics were used when the animal was alive, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mandates that all meat, including pork, chicken, or turkey, must not contain antibiotic residues above the Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) set by the agency. This ensures that any antibiotics are cleared from an animal’s system before it enters the food supply chain.

Why Are Antibiotics Used in Livestock?

Like humans, animals sometimes need antibiotics when they get sick. They may also be used to prevent disease or promote growth. Farmers must follow strict FDA guidelines for antibiotic use, including the proper dosage, duration, and withdrawal time.

How Are Antibiotics Administered?

Antibiotics can be given to animals as injections or added to their feed or water to treat or prevent illness in larger groups.

Regulations and Guidelines

As of June 2023, all meat and poultry farmers must have a veterinarian’s prescription to purchase antibiotics. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) routinely samples meat and poultry products to ensure they are free of antibiotic residues before reaching consumers. Any products testing positive for antibiotic residues are removed from the food system.

Understanding Antibiotic Residues

The FDA explains that after a food-producing animal is treated with a drug, residues may remain in food products like meat, poultry, milk, and eggs for some time. The agency ensures these residues are not harmful by setting tolerance levels and withdrawal periods, which are the times required for residues to fall below harmful levels.

FDA’s New Rules on Antibiotic Use

The FDA’s new rules aim to combat antimicrobial resistance, a significant concern for both animal and human health. By requiring medical supervision for antibiotic use, the FDA helps ensure that antibiotics are used effectively and appropriately.

Long-Term Benefits of Reducing Antibiotic Use

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), antimicrobial resistance is a global issue, with over 2.8 million antibiotic-resistant infections occurring annually in the U.S., resulting in more than 35,000 deaths. Many veterinarians, producers, and animal health stakeholders are now committed to responsible antibiotic use and are adopting better animal care practices to reduce the need for antibiotics.

Understanding Labels: What Does “No Antibiotics Ever” Mean?

This label means that no antibiotics were used in raising the animal. If an animal becomes sick and needs antibiotics, it is removed from the “no antibiotics” line and processed separately. Producers must provide documentation to the USDA, but there are no inspections for this claim.

Should You Only Buy “No Antibiotics Ever” Meat?

Both antibiotic-free and conventionally raised meat are safe. It’s a personal choice for consumers. Regardless of your choice, Jones ensures that all their meat is fresh, never frozen, and sourced from local Midwest producers. Jones products are hormone-free, without additives, preservatives, binders, or MSG, based on original family recipes for over 135 years.

Does Jones Buy Meat from Quality Suppliers?

Yes, Jones partners with high-quality suppliers and requires regular audits, plant inspections, and thorough checks upon receipt of products. This selective process ensures a better product for customers. Learn more about the Jones Difference.

Hormones in Meat

Federal regulations prohibit the use of hormones in raising hogs and poultry. While animals have natural hormones for growth, added hormones are not allowed.

Answers to Other Commonly Asked Questions:

Jones Products with “No Antibiotics Ever” Meat

Learn more about Jones Dairy Farm’s all natural products produced with vegetarian fed, hormone-free pork and poultry with no additives like sugar, MSG, nitrates or artificial flavors.

Where can I buy Jones products?

Check the Product Finder to find the retailer near you that sells Jones products.

Have an additional questions not covered in this article?

Reach out to our customer service representatives here.

How to Cook Air Fryer Bacon

Just the smell of bacon alone is enough to tantalize taste buds and draw a crowd into the kitchen. Air fryer bacon is a game-changer, offering a quick, mess-free way to achieve crispy perfection. Whether you’re making breakfast, adding bacon to a recipe, or just craving a crispy snack, learning how to cook bacon in an air fryer ensures you get the best results every time.

The Perks of Cooking Air Fryer Bacon

Why is the buzz about air frying bacon growing? It’s simple – it’s a healthier and cleaner method than traditional frying, and it delivers perfectly crispy bacon every time. Let’s dive into the benefits of cooking bacon in an air fryer.

  1. Air fryer bacon is crispier and less greasy. The hot air circulates evenly, draining excess oil while locking in that delicious smoky flavor.
  2. Air fryer bacon is easier to clean up. No more grease splattering all over your stovetop — just pour out the excess drippings when you’re done.
  3. Air fryer bacon fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of bacon. Whether you eat it on its own, with eggs, or as a topping, air frying bacon gives you that perfect balance of crispiness and flavor.
  4. Air fryer bacon is ideal for small servings. No need to heat up the whole kitchen — just pop a few slices into your air fryer and enjoy fresh, crispy bacon in minutes.

Master the Timing for Perfect Air Fryer Bacon

Timing is everything when it comes to air frying bacon. However, the cook time can vary depending on the thickness of the bacon slices, your preferred level of crispiness, and the specific model of your air fryer.

Here are suggested cooking instructions for different bacon thicknesses:

If you prefer softer air fryer bacon, reduce the cooking time by a minute or two. For extra-crispy bacon, add an extra minute or two. Just keep an eye on it toward the end to avoid burning.

Recipe for Success: Essential Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Bacon

Here are some final tips to help you master the art of air frying bacon.

  1. Choose the right bacon: Thick-cut slices (such as Jones Extra Thick Cut Bacon) work best for air fryer bacon, as they maintain their texture during cooking.
  2. Prevent smoke and splatter: Preheating your air fryer helps render fat and reduces smoking. Placing parchment paper or foil in the bottom of the air fryer basket can catch drippings.
  3. Avoid overcrowding: Cook no more than four slices at a time to ensure even crisping. Overlapping bacon can cause uneven cooking.
  4. Enhance the flavor: Add black pepper, garlic powder, or a touch of maple syrup for an extra layer of flavor.
  5. Check for doneness: Use tongs to lift a slice and examine its color and texture. Air fryer bacon should be golden brown and crispy but not burnt. If needed, return it to the air fryer for an extra minute.

With these tips in your arsenal, you’re all set to master the art of air fryer bacon. Enjoy!

Jones Dairy Farm Bacon in an air fryer, Air Fryer Bacon, Jones Dry Aged Bacon, Air Frying Bacon, Cooking Bacon in an Air Fryer

Why Choose Jones Dry Aged Bacon for Your Air Fryer?

Not all bacon is created equal. Jones Dry Aged Bacon is crafted for superior flavor and texture, making it the perfect choice for air fryer bacon. Try these premium varieties:

Check the Jones Product Finder to locate a store near you that sells Jones Bacon and other premium Jones products.

How to Cook Canadian Bacon

Jones Original Canadian Bacon is America’s top-selling choice for a reason. Naturally smoked over real hickory chips, Jones Canadian Bacon is a lean, high-protein option, boasting 10 grams of protein per 3-slice serving, with only 60 calories and 97% fat-free. Made from fresh center-cut premium pork loins, Jones Canadian Bacon contains no fillers or trimmings, ensuring pure, high-quality meat in every bite. It’s quality you can taste.

Since it’s fully cooked, Jones Canadian Bacon can be enjoyed straight from the package, making it a convenient and delicious snack. However, if you prefer it warmed, here are the best methods for cooking Canadian bacon:

How to Cook Canadian Bacon

Stovetop: Preheat your pan or griddle on medium heat. Place the Canadian bacon slices in the pan and cook for about 1 minute per side, flipping once.

Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Arrange the slices in a single layer and air fry for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Pro Tip: Avoid microwaving Jones Canadian Bacon, as results can vary based on microwave size, make, and model.

How to Use Canadian Bacon in Recipes

Jones Canadian Bacon isn’t just for breakfast! Incorporate its rich, smoky flavor into a variety of meals, including:

Check out more Canadian bacon recipes here.

Canadian Bacon in a sandwich with lettuce and tomato, Jones Dairy Farm Canadian Bacon
Canadian Bacon and Cheese Quesadilla, How to Cook Canadian Bacon, Jones Canadian Bacon

Discover Jones All Natural Uncured Canadian Bacon

Jones also offers All Natural Uncured Canadian Bacon, available in 6 oz. and 24 oz. packages. Cherrywood smoked and made without sugar, antibiotics, or artificial nitrates/nitrites, this option is perfect for those looking for a clean-label choice with the same great flavor.

Still wondering what Canadian bacon is? Learn more here.

If you have any questions about Jones Dairy Farm Canadian Bacon, feel free to contact our customer service team here.

Guide to Jones Products at Target

With the upcoming addition of our All Natural Golden Brown Chicken Sausage Links, Target will soon carry four top selling Jones products in many of their store locations nationwide.

Here is general information about the Jones items available at Target. We’ve also included a direct link to the Target website to help you find the closest store near you. All products are available for pickup and delivery at many of the store locations. 

Canadian Bacon, 6 oz. packages available at 1,428 Target stores nationwide, Price: $4.49*

More about: The authentic flavor of Jones Canadian Bacon is just as good in a recipe as it is on its own — straight from the package! A good source of lean protein, fully cooked and naturally smoked over real hickory chips, no wonder it’s America’s top-selling Canadian bacon. Click here to find the Target store near you.

Nutritional benefits: 3 slice serving contains 10g protein, 60 calories and is 97% fat free.

Perfect for: An alternative to ham for sandwiches and salads, diced in omelets or scrambled eggs or added to pasta.

Where to find in-store: Typically, in the Bacon & Sausage section of the refrigerator case also near the eggs.

More about: Our pork sausage links are fully cooked so you can heat them and eat them in mere minutes. Certified Gluten Free and made with no additives, MSG or preservatives, these links are frozen for freshness. Click here to find the Target store near you.

Nutritional benefits: 3 link serving contains 7g protein, 1g carbs and no sugar.

Perfect for: Pigs in a blanket, breakfast burritos or to serve along with pancakes or waffles.

Where to find in-store: In the Frozen Breakfast/Frozen Meat section of the freezer case also near the Waffles and Frozen Potatoes.

More about: Our savory fully cooked turkey sausage links are packed with the same bold flavors as our pork varieties. These Certified Gluten-Free turkey sausage links contain no binders, fillers, or preservatives. Click here to find the Target store near you.

Nutritional benefits: 4 link serving contains 10g of protein and 75% less fat than fully cooked pork sausage.

Perfect for: French toast roll ups, breakfast bowls and frittatas.

Where to find in-store: In the Frozen Breakfast/Frozen Meat section of the freezer case also near the Waffles and Frozen Potatoes.

More about: Our all-natural chicken sausage links boast the unmistakable Jones flavor with a fraction of the fat. And because natural ingredients taste better, we never add MSG, nitrites, or preservatives to our products. These fully cooked links are also Certified Gluten-Free. Click here to find the Target store near you.

Nutritional benefits: 4 link serving contains 8g of protein and ​60% less fat than fully cooked pork sausage per serving.

Perfect for: Breakfast casseroles, egg bites, hash brown skillets, and hearty soups.

Where to find in-store: In the Frozen Breakfast/Frozen Meat section of the freezer case also near the Waffles and Frozen Potatoes.

For more information or if you have any questions, call our consumer hotline at 1-800-635-6637 to speak to a live customer service representative.

*Price may vary by store.

Jones Introduces Pork & Chicken Meatballs

Jones Dairy Farm has officially branched out of the breakfast category with the introduction of All Natural No Antibiotics Ever (NAE) Pork and Chicken Meatballs.

Fully cooked and gluten-free certified, the NAE meatballs are free of the USDA Big 9 Allergens including soy, wheat and dairy (both milk and cheese). They’re also free of fillers, binders and breadcrumbs, making them a wholesome meal, hearty snack or delicious appetizer any time of the day. Like Jones All Natural Sausage, the meatballs are produced in small batches from only fresh never frozen pork or chicken sourced from local producers in the Midwest and with in-house made spice blend.

Jones Meatballs are high in protein and offer convenience and remarkable versatility. Whether you prefer them with or without a sauce or made on the stovetop or microwave, these meatballs adapt effortlessly to your taste preferences.

The recipe options are endless. For instance, toss them into your favorite pasta or rice dishes, cook them on a sheet pan alongside veggies, craft a delicious meatball slider or sub, or serve with a spicy sauce or glaze for a delightful appetizer served with toothpicks.

“Our new meatballs are made from a handful of real, simple ingredients that you probably have in your own kitchen,” said Lisa Caras, Marketing Director and 7th generation Jones family member. “The pork meatballs are made from only 5 ingredients, while the chicken meatballs, with a few more spices, only have 7. It’s impressive since nearly all other meatballs in the market today contain either soy, milk, cheese or all three. For customers already fans of our Sausage, Bacon and Ham, they’re absolutely going to love these delicious meatballs.”

Jones NAE Meatballs can be found in the freezer section in 18-ounce (pork) and 16-ounce (chicken) resealable packages.  Visit the Product Finder for the store near you that carries Jones products.

For delicious and easy meatball recipes, here are a few favorites from the Jones recipe section: