Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast Recipe

Introduction

This Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast is a comforting and simple meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining frozen meatballs, hearty vegetables, and rich gravy, it’s a delicious one-pot dish that requires minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 (26 oz) bag frozen meatballs
• 2 cups baby carrots
• 5 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 packets brown gravy mix
• 1 packet Lipton onion soup mix
• 2 cups water
• ¼ cup butter
• 1 (24 oz) container refrigerated mashed potatoes (or make your own)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the frozen meatballs, baby carrots, and chopped celery into your slow cooker.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the two packets of brown gravy mix with two cups of water. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and toss to combine with the meatballs and vegetables.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the packet of onion soup mix evenly over the top of the ingredients in the slow cooker.
4. Step 4: Slice the butter into small pieces and place them evenly over the top.
5. Step 5: Cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking and to incorporate the butter and seasonings.
6. Step 6: Just before serving, prepare the mashed potatoes according to the package instructions and serve alongside the pot roast mixture. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of garlic powder to the gravy mixture.
• Try swapping baby carrots for diced potatoes or parsnips to vary the vegetable mix.
• If you prefer thicker gravy, you can add an additional packet of brown gravy mix or reduce the water slightly.
• Serve with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. For best texture, reheat the mashed potatoes separately.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh meatballs can be used; just ensure they’re fully cooked before adding to the slow cooker or adjust cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot or pressure cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot by cooking on high pressure for about 20 minutes. Use the sauté function to brown meatballs first if desired, then add remaining ingredients before sealing the lid.

Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 54 reviews

This Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast is a comforting and hearty slow-cooker meal featuring juicy frozen meatballs simmered with baby carrots, celery, and rich brown gravy, topped off with savory onion soup mix and butter. Served alongside creamy mashed potatoes, it’s an effortless dinner perfect for busy weeknights.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 (26oz) bag frozen meatballs
• 2 cups baby carrots
• 5 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 packets brown gravy mix
• 1 packet Lipton onion soup mix
• 2 cups water
• ¼ cup butter, sliced
• 1 (24oz) container refrigerated mashed potatoes (or homemade)

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Place the frozen meatballs, baby carrots, and chopped celery into your slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed for even cooking.
2. Make Gravy Mixture: In a small bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the two packets of brown gravy mix with two cups of water until smooth.
3. Add Gravy and Seasoning: Pour the cold brown gravy mixture into the slow cooker over the meatballs and vegetables. Toss gently to coat all ingredients.
4. Top with Onion Soup Mix and Butter: Sprinkle the Lipton onion soup mix evenly over the mixture, then evenly distribute the sliced butter pieces on top to add richness and flavor.
5. Cook Slowly: Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours, stirring halfway through the cooking time to ensure even heat distribution and to meld the flavors together.
6. Prepare Mashed Potatoes: Just before serving, heat and prepare the refrigerated mashed potatoes according to the package directions.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the tender meatball pot roast along with the mashed potatoes onto plates and enjoy a warm, delicious meal.

Notes

• Stir halfway through cooking to prevent sticking and promote even flavor mixing.
• You can substitute homemade mashed potatoes if preferred.
• For thicker gravy, you may add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Vegetables can be varied according to your preference or seasonal availability.
• Use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup.

Keywords: meatball pot roast, slow cooker dinner, easy comfort food, frozen meatball recipe, brown gravy, mashed potatoes, one pot meal