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Frozen Meatballs Crockpot Recipe with Marinara Sauce

Set It & Forget It: Frozen Meatballs Crockpot Recipe with Rich Marinara Sauce

Set It & Forget It: Frozen Meatballs Crockpot Recipe with Rich Marinara Sauce

If there’s one recipe that has saved me more times than I can count, it’s frozen meatballs crockpot with marinara sauce recipes. As a chef and a busy mom, I’ve learned that not every delicious meal requires hours of chopping and sautéing. Sometimes, the best dinners are the ones where you toss everything in a slow cooker, press a button, and let magic happen. This dish is one of those – hearty, flavorful, and so incredibly easy.

I first started making this recipe when I needed something fast and stress-free for a last-minute family gathering. To my surprise, the slow cooker did all the work, and everyone raved about the tender, savory meatballs and rich marinara sauce. Since then, it’s become a staple in my home for easy appetizers, fast dinners, or even a twist for summer BBQ parties.

This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Please read our full disclosure here to find out more.

Set It & Forget It: Frozen Meatballs Crockpot Recipe with Rich Marinara Sauce

Why Frozen Meatballs in the Crockpot Are a Game-Changer

Let’s be real—life is busy. Some nights you just don’t have the time (or energy) to roll fresh meatballs by hand. That’s where frozen meatballs step in as a lifesaver. Combined with marinara sauce in a slow cooker, you get a dish that tastes like it simmered all day without the fuss. Here’s why I love this recipe:

  • Set It & Forget It: The slow cooker handles everything while you go about your day.
  • Versatility: Great for dinners, potluck appetizers, or even sliders for BBQ nights.
  • Savory Comfort: Meatballs soak up the marinara, creating a rich, flavorful dish.
  • Simple & Healthy: With a few smart swaps (like turkey meatballs or low-sodium sauce), you can make it lighter.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the exact ingredient list I use when making this dish. The measurements are perfect for serving 6–8 people.

  • 2 lbs frozen meatballs (about 40–45 pieces, beef, turkey, or chicken)
  • 48 oz (two 24 oz jars) marinara sauce
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional garnish)

Optional add-ins: For a BBQ twist, swap one jar of marinara with 1 1/2 cups of your favorite BBQ sauce. For a healthy option, choose lean turkey meatballs and a no-sugar-added marinara.

How to Cook Frozen Meatballs in the Crockpot with Marinara Sauce

  1. In your slow cooker, drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil and add the chopped onion and garlic to the bottom.
  2. Place the 2 lbs of frozen meatballs directly into the slow cooker (no need to thaw!).
  3. Pour the 48 oz marinara sauce over the meatballs.
  4. Sprinkle in 1 tbsp Italian seasoning and 1 tsp red pepper flakes (if using).
  5. Stir gently so everything is coated evenly.
  6. Cover with the lid and cook:
    • Low: 6–8 hours
    • High: 3–4 hours
  7. Once cooked, top with fresh basil and Parmesan before serving.

That’s it—so simple, so savory, and absolutely foolproof!

Chef’s Amazon Picks for Making This Recipe Even Easier

Over the years, I’ve learned that the right tools make a big difference in the kitchen. Here are my top 3 picks from Amazon that I personally use when making crockpot meatballs.

1. Crockpot 7-Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker

This classic slow cooker is large enough to fit big batches, making it perfect for family dinners or parties. The “set it & forget it” design is exactly what you need for recipes like this.

👉 Grab your Crockpot here and make cooking stress-free!

2. OXO Good Grips Garlic Press

Fresh garlic is a game-changer in marinara sauce, and this garlic press makes it so easy to add flavor without sticky fingers. Durable, easy to clean, and a total kitchen essential.

👉 Add this garlic press to your kitchen tools today!

3. Parmesan Cheese Grater – Microplane Classic

Freshly grated Parmesan on top of your meatballs? Heaven. This Microplane grater makes it effortless and gives that restaurant-quality finish.

👉 Click here to get your Parmesan grater now!

Flavor Variations to Try

  • Spicy Kick: Add extra chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
  • BBQ Twist: Swap marinara with BBQ sauce or do a 50/50 mix.
  • Healthy Option: Use turkey meatballs and no-sugar marinara.

How to Serve Crockpot Meatballs

These meatballs are so versatile that you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy them. Here are my favorites:

  • Easy Appetizers: Serve with toothpicks at parties.
  • Fast Dinners: Pair with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or sub rolls.
  • BBQ Cookout Style: Skewer them for sliders or serve in buns.
  • Meal Prep: Store in containers with veggies and grains for a healthy week.

Tips & Tricks from a Chef

  • Choosing Meatballs: Look for high-quality frozen meatballs with minimal fillers.
  • Thickening Sauce: Add a tablespoon of tomato paste if you want a thicker marinara.
  • Balancing Flavor: A pinch of sugar can balance acidity in the sauce.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.

FAQs About Frozen Meatballs Crockpot with Marinara Sauce Recipes

Can you put frozen meatballs directly in the slow cooker?
Yes! That’s the beauty of this recipe—no thawing required.
How long do I cook them?
On low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
Can I make them spicy?
Absolutely—just add chili flakes, hot sauce, or even diced jalapeños.
What if I prefer BBQ flavor?
Swap marinara with BBQ sauce or mix half marinara and half BBQ for a smoky-sweet twist.
Are these meatballs healthy?
They can be! Choose lean turkey meatballs and low-sodium, no-sugar marinara for a lighter version.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, this frozen meatballs crockpot with marinara sauce recipe is a true winner. It’s easy, savory, and endlessly customizable—perfect for everything from simple weeknight dinners to party appetizers or even a BBQ spread. I’ve made it countless times, and each time it gets rave reviews.

So the next time you’re wondering how to cook something that’s fast, flavorful, and foolproof, remember this recipe. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to this slow cooker classic again and again.

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