Slow Cooker Meatball & Potato Casserole

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The Ultimate Slow Cooker Meatball & Potato Casserole

This recipe relies on frozen staples to minimize prep time. The potatoes soak up the juices from the meatballs, creating a savory, hearty dish.

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Cook time: 4–6 hours (Low) or 3 hours (High)

  • Servings: 6 people

Ingredients

  • 1 bag (24–32 oz): Frozen meatballs (Italian style or Homestyle)

  • 1 bag (28–32 oz): Frozen diced potatoes or hash brown chunks (as seen in your photo)

  • 1 can (10.5 oz): Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken soup

  • 1 cup: Beef broth (or water)

  • 1 tsp: Garlic powder

  • 1 tsp: Onion powder

  • 1/2 tsp: Black pepper

  • 1 cup: Shredded Cheddar cheese (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Layer: Lightly grease your slow cooker. Place the frozen meatballs on one side and the frozen diced potatoes on the other (or mix them if you prefer).

  2. Whisk: In a small bowl, mix the cream soup, beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.

  3. Pour: Drizzle the sauce mixture evenly over the meatballs and potatoes.

  4. Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 4–6 hours or High for 3 hours, until potatoes are fork-tender.

  5. Finish: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Let it melt, then serve.

Recipe Notes & Tips

  • The Potato Choice: Using frozen cubed potatoes (like in the image) keeps their shape better than fresh potatoes, which can sometimes turn mushy in a slow cooker.

  • Veggies: To make it a full meal, toss in a bag of frozen peas or green beans during the last hour.

  • Sauce Variations: If you don’t like “Cream of” soups, you can use a jar of marinara sauce and top with mozzarella for a “Pizza Style” meatball bake.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Metric Amount (Approx.)
Calories 420 kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 32g
Fat 24g
Sodium 890mg

Benefits of This Recipe

  • Budget-Friendly: Uses frozen staples that are often on sale.

  • Low Effort: No chopping, searing, or sautéing required.

  • Kid-Friendly: Almost every kid loves meatballs and potatoes.

  • Versatile: Easy to swap spices or sauces to change the flavor profile.

Q&A

Q: Do I need to thaw the meatballs first? A: No! The slow cooker is designed to heat them safely from frozen. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).

Q: Can I use fresh potatoes? A: Yes, but peel and cube them into 1-inch pieces. Fresh potatoes may take slightly longer to cook than the frozen pre-cooked variety.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day!

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