This simple yet satisfying Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Meatball Marinara Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner solution. With minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients, you can enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal that’s ready when you are. The convenience of the slow cooker allows you to set it and forget it, making it ideal for busy evenings. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for both adults and children, and it’s easily customizable with your favorite pasta and desired spice level.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Frozen Meatballs | 1 pound |
| Marinara Sauce | 24 ounces |
| Pasta (Spaghetti or Penne) | 8 ounces |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Shredded Mozzarella Cheese | 1 cup |
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: Place the frozen meatballs in the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well-coated. Add the water to the slow cooker, gently stirring to combine with the sauce.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the meatballs are heated through.
- Cook Pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta.
- Combine and Melt: Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker, stirring to combine with the sauce and meatballs. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt for about 10 minutes.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy!
Here’s an easy recipe for meatballs that you can try:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (fresh or dried)
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes for extra flavor
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and any optional spices you want to add. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Form Meatballs: Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.
- Serve: You can serve these meatballs with spaghetti and marinara sauce, in a meatball sub, or as an appetizer with dipping sauce.
Enjoy making your meatballs! Feel free to add any spices you enjoy to enhance the flavor!