Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Meatball Marinara Pasta Recipe

Create the Ultimate Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Meatball Marinara Pasta

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Amelia Parker
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4-5 hours
  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Pasta
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

A hearty, comforting pasta dish that’s quick and easy to prepare, featuring tender meatballs smothered in marinara sauce and tossed with pasta.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound frozen meatballs
  • 24 ounce marinara sauce
  • 8 ounce pasta of your choice
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Place the frozen meatballs in the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well-coated.

3. Add the water to the slow cooker, gently stirring to combine with the sauce.

4. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the meatballs are heated through.

5. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.

6. Drain the pasta and add it to the slow cooker, stirring to combine with the sauce and meatballs.

7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt for about 10 minutes before serving.


Notes

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.

For a creamier sauce, stir in half a cup of heavy cream or ricotta cheese before adding the pasta.

For a vegetarian version, swap out the meatballs for plant-based alternatives or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 500
  • Sugar: 6 grams
  • Sodium: 800 milligrams
  • Fat: 18 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 9 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 grams
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 60 grams
  • Fiber: 6 grams
  • Protein: 28 grams
  • Cholesterol: 50 milligrams