Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Meatball Penne
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 3–5 hours (depending on heat setting)
🛒 Ingredients
1 bag (about 700–900 g) frozen meatballs
3 cups dry penne pasta
1 jar (700–800 g) marinara or pasta sauce
(Optional for serving: grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella, red pepper flakes, parsley)
Instructions
Add everything to the slow cooker
Pour in the frozen meatballs
Add the dry penne pasta
Pour the marinara sauce over the top
Add a little liquid (important)
Add about 2 to 3 cups water or broth
Stir gently so the pasta is mostly covered
Cook
Low: 4–5 hours
High: 2.5–3 hours
Stir once or twice if you can (helps pasta cook evenly)
Check doneness
Pasta should be tender
Sauce will thicken as it absorbs into the pasta
Serve
Scoop into bowls
Top with cheese if you like
Serve hot straight from the slow cooker
Tips for Best Results
If pasta looks dry, add a splash of hot water and stir
If too saucy, let it sit uncovered for 10–15 minutes
Don’t overcook—pasta can get soft if left too long
Easy Serving Ideas
Garlic bread or toast
Simple salad
Sliced cucumbers with dressing
