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–+ servings
Slow Cooker Meatball Casserole

Savory Slow Cooker Meatball Casserole for Cozy Nights

This Slow Cooker Meatball Casserole is a comforting dish that combines meatballs, pasta, and cheese, perfect for cozy family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Cheese Melting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 24 ounces Frozen Meatballs beef or turkey
  • 12 ounces Short Pasta (e.g., Penne or Rotini) avoid long noodles
  • 24 ounces Marinara Sauce high-quality jarred or homemade
  • 2 cups Chicken or Beef Broth can substitute with water
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese some mixed into casserole
  • 0.5 cups Grated Parmesan Cheese sprinkle generously
  • Fresh Basil or Parsley (optional) for garnish
Optional Variations
  • Vegetables bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms
  • Spicy Elements red pepper flakes or spicy sausage
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation substitute with gluten-free pasta
  • Different Cheeses provolone or fontina for variety

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker by lightly greasing the inside with cooking spray or oil.
  2. Combine the frozen meatballs, uncooked short pasta, marinara sauce, and broth in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder, stirring to mix evenly.
  4. Set the slow cooker to LOW and cook for 4 to 5 hours. Stir occasionally.
  5. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
  6. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, use fully cooked meatballs and monitor the cooking time to prevent overcooking the pasta.

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