Slow Cooker Meatball Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Meatball Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines tender meatballs, gooey cheese, and flavorful tomato sauce, all cooked together in a slow cooker. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want a hearty meal with minimal effort. The flavors meld beautifully as everything simmers together, making it a family favorite that can be served over pasta, rice, or even enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients

• (Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen meatballs
• Marinara sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Shredded Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Add the frozen meatballs to the slow cooker.
2. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are heated through and tender.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the meatballs.
6. Cover and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Total time: 4-6 hours

Variations

• Add sliced bell peppers or onions to the casserole for extra veggies.
• Swap out the marinara sauce for a creamy Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.
• For a spicy twist, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Use turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Slow Cooker Meatball Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use homemade meatballs?
Yes, homemade meatballs can be used in place of frozen ones. Just make sure they are cooked through before adding them to the slow cooker.

Can I make this casserole in the oven?
While this recipe is designed for the slow cooker, you can bake the casserole in the oven by layering the meatballs, sauce, and cheese in a baking dish and baking at 375°F (190°C) for 20-30 minutes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge before cooking. Just be sure to cook it within 24 hours.

Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole after it’s cooked. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm in the microwave or oven.

What should I serve this casserole with?
Serve it over pasta, rice, or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Meatball Casserole is an effortless, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the comfort of home-cooked flavors with minimal work. It’s a great choice for busy evenings, family gatherings, or any time you’re craving a warm, cheesy meal.

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