Step 1

Preheat oven to 400°. In a large bowl, whisk egg, milk, minced onion, 2 tablespoons chili powder, salt and pepper; stir in crushed crackers. Add beef, sausage and cheese; mix lightly but thoroughly.

Step 2

Shape mixture into 1-in. balls. Place meatballs on greased racks in 15x10x1-in. baking pans. Bake until browned, 15-18 minutes.

Step 3

Meanwhile, in a 5- or 6-qt. slow cooker, combine soup, water, brown sugar and remaining chili powder. Gently stir in meatballs. Cook, covered, on low until meatballs are cooked through, 4-5 hours.