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Cheesy Crockpot Meatball Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 13 reviews
  • Author: Lora
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

This Cheesy Crockpot Meatball Pasta is a comforting and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy days. Juicy frozen meatballs slow-cooked in marinara sauce with Italian spices combine with creamy pasta and gooey mozzarella cheese for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Meatball Sauce

  • 2 lbs frozen meatballs
  • 2 (24 oz) jars marinara or pasta sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Pasta & Cheese

  • 16 oz box pasta (Cellentani or any preferred pasta)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce and meatballs: Add frozen meatballs, marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes into the crockpot. Stir everything to combine the flavors evenly.
  2. Slow cook the meatballs: Cook the mixture on low heat for 4 to 6 hours, allowing the meatballs to become tender and the sauce to develop rich flavors.
  3. Cook the pasta: About 10 minutes before the meatballs are done, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly.
  4. Combine pasta and cream with meatballs: Add the cooked pasta and 1/2 cup of heavy cream directly to the crockpot. Stir well to blend the creamy texture throughout the meatball sauce.
  5. Add cheese and finish: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta mixture. Let it sit in the residual heat until the cheese melts.
  6. Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy, hearty meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute fresh meatballs if preferred, but cooking time may need adjustment.
  • Use any pasta shape you like; shorter pasta holds sauce better.
  • For added veggies, mix in some sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms before slow cooking.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Find it online: https://meallora.com/cheesy-crockpot-meatball-pasta-recipe/