How to Make Slow Cooker Meatball and Potato Stew
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing, peeling, and chopping the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Slice the carrots and finely chop the onion and garlic. Preparing the vegetables evenly helps them cook at the same rate.
2. Add Everything to the Slow Cooker
Place the meatballs in the slow cooker first, then add the potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic. Pour the beef broth over the ingredients.
Next, add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine everything without breaking the meatballs.
3. Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and cook:
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6–7 hours on low, or
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3–4 hours on high
During this time, the potatoes will become tender, and the broth will develop a rich, savory flavor.
4. Thicken the Stew (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker during the last 20 minutes of cooking and let the stew continue cooking until it thickens.
5. Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A little extra salt, pepper, or fresh herbs can brighten the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This stew is hearty enough to serve on its own, but you can make it even better with:
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Warm crusty bread
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Buttered dinner rolls
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A light green salad
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A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top
Tips for the Best Stew
Use waxy potatoes: Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape well in slow cooking.
Brown homemade meatballs first: If you’re making meatballs from scratch, lightly browning them in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker adds extra flavor.
Add extra vegetables: Peas, celery, or green beans can easily be included for added nutrition and color.
A Meal That Feels Like Home
Slow cooker meatball and potato stew is the kind of dish that brings warmth to the table without demanding hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and a slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, you get a rich, comforting meal perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.
Once you try it, this cozy stew may quickly become one of your go-to comfort food recipes.
