Are you ready to indulge in a hearty, comforting dish that will warm your soul and satisfy your cravings? Look no further than this Slow Cooker Meatball Potato Casserole! With its layers of tender potatoes, savory meatballs, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to prepare. Imagine coming home after a long day to the irresistible aroma of a delicious meal, all thanks to your trusty slow cooker. Whether you're feeding a family or hosting friends, this recipe promises to be the star of the dinner table. Dive into the recipe below and discover how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 bag frozen meatballs
- 4 potatoes, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by washing and slicing the potatoes into thin, even rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. Finely chop the onion to ensure even distribution throughout the casserole.
- Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Create the first layer of the casserole by arranging a portion of the sliced potatoes across the bottom of the slow cooker, slightly overlapping the edges to create a solid base.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped onions over the potato layer, then season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Arrange the frozen meatballs evenly over the potato and onion layer, ensuring they are distributed throughout the casserole.
- Add another layer of sliced potatoes on top of the meatballs, followed by the remaining chopped onions and another round of seasoning.
- Slowly pour the beef broth over the entire casserole, making sure it seeps between the layers and provides moisture for cooking.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to LOW heat setting. Cook for 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to become tender.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole to create a melted, golden cheese layer.
- Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the lid and let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to settle and make serving easier.
- Serve hot, using a large spoon or spatula to portion out the meatballs, potatoes, and cheese in each serving.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can slice the potatoes and chop the onions the night before. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh.
- Layering is Key: Make sure to layer the ingredients evenly to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. Overlapping the potatoes slightly helps create a solid base that holds everything together.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! A little extra salt and pepper can elevate the dish, so taste as you go and adjust according to your preference.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: For an extra cheesy experience, consider using a blend of cheeses such as cheddar and mozzarella. This will add a delightful richness to the casserole.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This helps the layers set and makes serving much easier.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables or spices to personalize the dish. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a dash of Italian seasoning can add a unique twist.
- Leftover Magic: This casserole makes fantastic leftovers! Store any uneaten portions in the fridge for up to three days, and simply reheat for a quick meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
