The Ultimate 2-Ingredient Slow Cooker Meatballs & Pasta
Sometimes, the best meals are the ones that require the least amount of effort. If you are looking for a “set it and forget it” dinner that the whole family will devour, this is the one. By combining just two simple pantry staples in your slow cooker, you create a rich, savory sauce and perfectly tender meatballs that taste like they’ve been simmering on a stove in Italy all day.
This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, back-to-back meetings, or those days when you just don’t want to stand over a hot stove. It’s reliable, budget-friendly, and consistently delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Prep Time: 2 minutes.
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Effort Level: Minimal.
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Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters love classic spaghetti and meatballs.
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Versatile: Serve it over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or even on its own with a side of steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
To get started, you only need two primary ingredients for the slow cooker stage:
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Frozen Meatballs (24–32 oz): You can use beef, turkey, or even plant-based meatballs. Pre-cooked frozen meatballs work best as they hold their shape during the long simmer.
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Marinara Sauce (24–28 oz jar): Choose your favorite high-quality brand. A garlic and herb or basil-infused sauce adds extra depth without extra work.
Optional for serving: 1 box of spaghetti, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley for garnish.
