Slow Cooker Meatball and Pasta Comfort Bowl
Introduction
Comfort food is the ultimate solution for a long day. One of the best ways to satisfy your cravings is with a delicious Slow Cooker Meatball and Pasta Comfort Bowl. This dish combines savory, juicy meatballs with pasta and a rich tomato sauce, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. It’s easy to prepare and simmers beautifully in the slow cooker while you go about your day.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this recipe because it is incredibly convenient and rewarding. The slow cooker does most of the work for you, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen. Plus, it brings out incredible flavors as the meatballs cook slowly in the sauce. This dish is also kid-friendly and great for meal prep, ensuring you have tasty leftovers for the week.
How to Make Slow Cooker Meatball and Pasta Comfort Bowl
Making this comforting dish is simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious Slow Cooker Meatball and Pasta Comfort Bowl.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 1/3 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated plus more for serving
- 3 cloves garlic, minced for meatballs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning for meatballs
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt for meatballs
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper for meatballs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for browning
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup low sodium beef broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced for sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning for sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt for sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper for sauce
- 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, onion powder, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix gently and roll the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs (you should get about 22 to 24 meatballs).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer the browned meatballs to your slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, remaining minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- Cook the rigatoni in salted water until al dente, then drain and toss with a little olive oil.
- Serve the meatballs and sauce over the pasta, topping with more Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Meatball and Pasta Comfort Bowl
For serving, plate the rigatoni first, then add a generous helping of meatballs and sauce on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and add fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish. Enjoy it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Slow Cooker Meatball and Pasta Comfort Bowl
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat the meatball and sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave. If you have leftover pasta, it’s best to keep it separate to prevent it from getting mushy.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Meatball and Pasta Comfort Bowl
- For extra flavor, let the meatballs marinate in the fridge for an hour before cooking.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet when browning the meatballs; do it in batches if necessary.
- If you prefer whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, feel free to substitute it in this recipe.
Variation
You can switch up the meat and use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, try adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce for extra nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I make meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the meatballs a day before and store them in the fridge. Just add them to the slow cooker on the day you plan to serve them.
2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just store the meatballs and sauce in an airtight container and reheat when needed.
3. What can I use if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
You can make your own by mixing dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary together.
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and enjoy a mouthwatering bowl of Slow Cooker Meatball and Pasta Comfort Bowl!
Slow Cooker Meatball and Pasta Comfort Bowl
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, onion powder, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix gently and roll into 1.5-inch meatballs (you should get about 22 to 24 meatballs).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer the browned meatballs to your slow cooker.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, remaining minced garlic, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- Cook rigatoni in salted water until al dente, then drain and toss with a little olive oil.
- Serve meatballs and sauce over pasta, topping with more Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish.
