06/15/2026
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🍝 Farmhouse Crockpot Meatballs & Sauce
This is one of those easy, comforting meals that makes the house smell amazing all day. Toss everything in the crockpot, let it simmer low and slow, and serve over pasta with a side of garlic bread for a simple farmhouse supper.
Ingredients
* 1 bag (32 oz) frozen fully-cooked meatballs
* 3 (28 oz) cans crushed tomatoes
* 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
* 1/4 cup dry red wine* (Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon)
* 2 tablespoons dried minced garlic
* 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
* 1 teaspoon black pepper or seasoned pepper)
* 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
* 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
* Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan for serving (optional)
*The wine is optional but really adds a delicious depth of flavor to the sauce. If you prefer, substitute with 1/4 cup beef broth or water.
Directions
1. Add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to a large crockpot.
2. Stir in the red wine (or broth/water), dried minced garlic, Italian seasoning, pepper, sugar (if using), and salt.
3. Add the frozen meatballs and gently stir to coat.
4. Cover and cook:
* LOW: 6–8 hours
* HIGH: 3–4 hours
5. Stir before serving and adjust seasonings if needed.
6. Serve over spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta.
Farm Wife Tips 🤍
✨ Add 1 diced onion for extra flavor. Chopped multi-color peppers are delicious too.
✨ We like mushrooms, so I add fresh mushrooms to slow cook in the sauce. It adds more bulk to the sauce to feed hungry bellies.
✨ Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan during the last 30 minutes for a richer sauce.
✨ Serve with garlic bread and a simple garden salad.
✨ Leftovers freeze beautifully for a quick future meal.
Freezer Meal Option
Place the following in a gallon freezer bag:
* Crushed tomatoes
* Tomato paste
* Red wine (or beef broth)
* Garlic
* Italian seasoning
* Pepper
* Salt
Freeze flat.
When ready to cook, thaw overnight and pour into the crockpot. Add frozen meatballs and cook as directed.
Serves: 6
