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–+ servings
Slow Cooker Meatball Casserole

Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Casserole for Cozy Nights

Experience comfort with this Slow Cooker Meatball Casserole, combining robust marinara, pasta, and juicy meatballs beneath gooey cheese.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 bag Frozen Meatballs Use store-bought for convenience, or opt for homemade for better flavor control.
For the Sauce
  • 24 oz Marinara Sauce Provides a rich and tangy flavor base; can substitute with homemade sauce for a fresher taste.
For the Pasta
  • 16 oz Cooked Pasta (Penne or Rotini) Adds heartiness and texture; substitute with whole-grain or legume-based pasta for added nutrition.
For the Cheese
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Adds gooey, creamy texture on top; use reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.
  • 0.5 cups Grated Parmesan Cheese Enhances flavor with its sharpness; can replace with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
For Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Offers a mix of herbs to enhance flavor; fresh herbs can be substituted for a fresher taste.
  • to taste Salt Essential seasoning to taste; adjust according to personal preference.
  • to taste Pepper Essential seasoning to taste; adjust according to personal preference.
For Garnish
  • 1 bunch Fresh Basil or Parsley (optional) Adds a pop of color and freshness; omit if desired.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Step 1: Prepare Meatballs and Sauce. Start by adding frozen meatballs to your slow cooker. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs and use a spatula to gently stir, ensuring they are evenly coated. Set your slow cooker to high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours.
  2. Step 2: Soak in Flavor. Cover the slow cooker and let the meatballs simmer. Check for doneness after about 4 hours if on low.
  3. Step 3: Add Pasta. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, carefully add the cooked pasta into the slow cooker and gently stir to combine.
  4. Step 4: Sprinkle with Cheese. Once the pasta is incorporated, sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes.
  5. Step 5: Season to Taste. After the cheese has melted, remove the lid and season the casserole with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to your liking.
  6. Step 6: Garnish and Serve. Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving, and enjoy your warm casserole.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Make sure to add the cooked pasta in the last 30 minutes to prevent it from becoming mushy. Consider adding sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition.

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