Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast (Slow Cooker Dinner Recipe)

Published: January 3, 2026

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Just dump everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day.
Budget-Friendly: This recipe uses economical ingredients that won’t break the bank.
Family-Friendly: With familiar flavors and comforting textures, even picky eaters will enjoy this meal.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or serve over rice for a different twist!
Minimal Cleanup: One pot means fewer dishes, making cleanup a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

To create this easy frozen meatball pot roast, you’ll need some essential tools that can help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Slow Cooker
Mixing Bowl
Measuring Cups
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Slow Cooker: This is the heart of the recipe, allowing for slow, even cooking that enhances flavor.
Mixing Bowl: A sturdy bowl helps ensure all ingredients are mixed well before being added to the slow cooker.
Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right flavor balance in your dish.

Ingredients

Make this delicious dinner recipe on a budget with just a few basic ingredients! Your family is going to love this easy crockpot meal. Simply dump everything into your slow cooker and a few hours later you’ve got a comforting pot roast that’s cheap and easy to make thanks to frozen meatballs.

For the Meatballs

1 (26oz) bag frozen meatballs

For the Vegetables

2 cups baby carrots
5 stalks celery (chopped)

For the Seasoning

2 packets brown gravy mix
1 packet Lipton onion soup mix

For Cooking

2 cups water
¼ cup butter

For Serving

1 (24oz) container refrigerated mashed potatoes (or make your own)

How to Make Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast (Slow Cooker Dinner Recipe)

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Place the frozen meatballs, baby carrots, and chopped celery into your slow cooker.

Step 2: Make the Gravy Mixture

In a small bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together two packets of brown gravy mix with two cups of water.
Pour this cold mixture into your slow cooker and toss with the meatballs and veggies.

Step 3: Add Seasoning

Sprinkle the packet of onion soup mix over top.

Step 4: Add Butter

Slice the butter into small pieces and evenly place them over the top of everything in the slow cooker.

Step 5: Cook

Cook on LOW for 3-4 hours. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking and proper incorporation of butter and seasonings.

Step 6: Prepare Mashed Potatoes

Just before serving, heat up and prepare the mashed potatoes according to package instructions. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast (Slow Cooker Dinner Recipe)

Serving your Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast is simple and satisfying. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors and presentation.

Add Fresh Herbs

Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh touch and bright color.
Thyme: Sprinkle some fresh thyme leaves for an aromatic finish.

Serve with Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Homemade or Store-Bought: Pair your pot roast with creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Include a Side Salad

Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm pot roast.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad can elevate your dinner experience.

Use Crusty Bread

Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for dipping into the savory gravy.
Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

How to Perfect Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast (Slow Cooker Dinner Recipe)

To make sure your Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast turns out great every time, follow these handy tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

Use Quality Meatballs: Choose good-quality frozen meatballs for the best taste. Homemade versions can also be used if you prefer.
Adjust Gravy Mix: If you like a thicker gravy, consider adding an extra packet of brown gravy mix.
Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or peas to enhance nutrition and flavor.
Stir Occasionally: Stirring halfway through cooking helps distribute heat and flavors evenly throughout the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast (Slow Cooker Dinner Recipe)

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent choices that complement this cozy dinner.

Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and crunch to your plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that balances the dish well.
Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach offers a deliciously savory side that’s easy to prepare.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob makes for a fun and tasty addition to your meal.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Baked sweet potatoes add sweetness and are packed with nutrients.
Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with fresh veggies provides added protein and texture, making it a nutritious choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.

Ignoring the cooking times – Not following the recommended cooking time can lead to undercooked or overcooked meatballs. Always stick to the 3-4 hours on LOW for best results.
Not stirring halfway through – Failing to stir can cause uneven cooking. Make sure to give your ingredients a good stir about halfway through the cooking process.
Skipping the butter – Leaving out the butter can make your dish less flavorful. The butter adds richness, so be sure to include it for a creamy finish.
Using too much water – Adding excess water can dilute the flavor of your pot roast. Stick to the recipe’s specified amount for optimal taste.
Neglecting to customize – Many people overlook adding personal touches such as spices or veggies. Feel free to adjust ingredients based on your family’s preferences.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast (Slow Cooker Dinner Recipe)

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast (Slow Cooker Dinner Recipe)

Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F, place in a covered dish, and bake until warmed through (about 30-40 minutes).
Microwave – Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot (stirring occasionally).
Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan while stirring until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this recipe or its variations, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

What is the best way to serve Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast?

Serve your pot roast over mashed potatoes or alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add potatoes, green beans, or any other vegetables you enjoy in slow-cooked dishes.

How do I know when my meatballs are cooked properly?

Meatballs should be heated thoroughly and tender after cooking for 3-4 hours on LOW.

Can I customize the gravy flavor?

Yes! You can enhance the flavor by adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even using flavored broth instead of water.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This dish freezes well and makes for an easy meal prep option that you can enjoy later.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Frozen Meatball Pot Roast is a fantastic choice for busy nights when you need comfort food without the hassle. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try experimenting with different vegetables or spices to make it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card