Name: Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew: Comforting Dinner in a Flash
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil (can substitute with neutral cooking oil); 1 medium onion (diced; yellow or white onions work best); 3 cloves garlic (minced; fresh garlic recommended); 4 cups beef broth (chicken or vegetable broth can be used); 2 tablespoons tomato paste (adds depth; tomato sauce can be a substitute); 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (soy sauce as a gluten-free alternative); 1 teaspoon dried thyme (can substitute with other dried herbs); 1 teaspoon paprika (can substitute with other dried herbs); to taste salt (to enhance flavors); to taste black pepper (to enhance flavors); 1 pound baby potatoes (Yukon golds or chopped russets are alternatives); 2 medium carrots (chopped; any variety will do); 1 cup frozen peas (can swap with other frozen veggies); 1 pound frozen or homemade cooked meatballs; 2 tablespoons cornstarch (mixed with an equal amount of water); 2 tablespoons water (to mix with cornstarch); to taste fresh parsley (optional; adds brightness)

As I stirred the simmering pot of my Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew, the rich aroma wafted through my kitchen, instantly evoking a sense of warmth and comfort. This stew is like a cozy hug on a chilly evening, filled with juicy meatballs, tender potatoes, and vibrant vegetables, all brought together in a savory broth. Perfect for busy weeknights, this simple recipe requires just one pot and minimal cleanup, making it not only a delicious option but also a huge time-saver. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, so you can easily prepare a batch for those days when cooking feels like a chore. Ready to dive into a bowl of heartwarming delight? Let’s get started!

Why is This Stew So Irresistible?

Comforting Warmth: This Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew brings a cozy sensation, perfect for chilly evenings.

Quick and Simple: With just one pot, you can whip it up easily, making weeknight meals stress-free.

Versatile Ingredients: Adapt every batch to your taste! Swap in different meatballs or seasonal veggies to keep things exciting.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Rich broth meets tender meatballs and hearty veggies, ensuring everyone at the table will ask for seconds.

Freezer-Friendly Goodness: Make a big batch, and freeze leftovers for a delicious, ready-to-go meal on busy days! If you love easy preparations, check out my Chicken Taquitos Spicy and Cinnamon Roll Pancakes for more comforting recipes!

Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew Ingredients

For the Stew Base

Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps to sauté the vegetables; feel free to substitute with any neutral cooking oil.
Onion – Provides aromatic sweetness; yellow or white onions work best for this recipe.
Garlic – Enhances flavor with a pungent aroma; fresh garlic is highly recommended for optimal taste.
Beef Broth – Forms the heart of the stew; use chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor profile.
Tomato Paste – Adds depth and a beautiful color to the stew; don’t skip it, though substitutes like tomato sauce can work in a pinch.
Worcestershire Sauce – Brings umami richness; soy sauce can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
Dried Thyme & Paprika – Both spices contribute savory notes; feel free to substitute with other dried herbs as per preference.
Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavors; adjust these to your personal taste.

For the Veggies

Baby Potatoes – Hold their shape well and soak up flavors; Yukon golds or chopped russets are great alternatives.
Carrots – Add a touch of sweetness and texture; any variety, whether baby or regular, will do the trick.
Frozen Peas – Offer a pop of color and sweetness; swap with other frozen veggies like green beans or corn if desired.

For the Meatballs

Frozen or Homemade Cooked Meatballs – The star of the stew; using pre-cooked options can save you precious time and effort.

For Thickening

Cornstarch & Water – Used to thicken your stew; ensure it’s mixed well before adding to prevent clumping.

For Garnish

Fresh Parsley (optional) – Adds brightness and a splash of color to your dish before serving; it’s optional but lovely!

With these ingredients gathered, you’re just one step closer to enjoying an enchanting bowl of Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, releasing a beautiful aroma that sets the stage for your Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew.

Step 2: Build the Base
Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste along with 4 cups of beef broth and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything together well, allowing the flavors to meld for about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Veggies and Meatballs
Incorporate 1 pound of baby potatoes, 2 chopped carrots, and your choice of frozen or homemade cooked meatballs into the pot. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes. Stir occasionally until the vegetables are fork-tender and the meatballs are heated through.

Step 4: Thicken the Stew
In a separate small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the simmering stew and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the broth thickens to your desired consistency, enhancing the heartiness of your Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew.

Step 5: Finish with Peas
Finally, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas, letting them warm through for about 2–3 minutes. This adds a burst of color and sweetness to the stew. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, making sure every spoonful is bursting with flavor.

Step 6: Serve
Ladle the hearty Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew into bowls, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Pair with crusty bread for a satisfying meal that comforts the soul and delights the taste buds.

Storage Tips for Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew

Fridge: Store leftover stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s fully cooled before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stew in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Portioning makes it easy to thaw and reuse!

Thawing: Thaw your Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew in the fridge overnight before reheating. This helps retain texture and flavor.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

Expert Tips for Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew

Pre-Cooked Convenience: Opt for pre-cooked meatballs to save prep time. It’s a quick way to make your Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew without sacrificing flavor.
Don’t Omit Tomato Paste: The tomato paste adds essential depth to the stew; skipping it can result in a bland broth.
Extra Hearty Add-Ins: For even more substance, consider adding cooked pasta or barley towards the end of cooking; it complements the stew perfectly.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a kick; this little adjustment transforms the flavor.
Thickening Technique: When mixing the cornstarch slurry, ensure there are no lumps before adding it to the pot; this prevents clumping in your Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew.

Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew—there are so many delightful variations that can add a personal touch!

Turkey Meatballs: Swap ground turkey for beef for a leaner, lighter version. The stew remains comforting and hearty!
Seasonal Veggies: Add fresh seasonal vegetables like green beans or zucchini. They not only enhance flavor but also bring beautiful color to your dish.
Spicy Kick: For some extra heat, toss in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. Your tastebuds will appreciate the zesty twist!
Pasta Addition: Incorporate cooked pasta or barley towards the end for added texture. This twist transforms your stew into a heartier meal everyone will adore.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute meatballs with veggie meatballs or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth for an equally delightful yet plant-based option!
Creamy Delight: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy consistency. This luxurious addition makes each bite feel infinitely indulgent.
Herb Variations: Change up the dried herbs! Fresh herbs like basil or rosemary can provide a fragrant twist, elevating the dish to new flavor heights.

If you’re keen on easy meal prep, keep an eye on your portion sizes with your Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew by checking out my Mushroom Stir Fry for a delightful veggie side or my Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a sweet finish after your savory stew. Let your fork lead the way!

What to Serve with Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew

A warm bowl of Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew deserves delightful companions to round out your meal experience.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a slice of warm, crusty bread brings a satisfying texture to every spoonful of stew.
Simple Side Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the hearty stew, adding brightness to the meal.
Garlic Bread: With its buttery, garlicky crust, garlic bread not only enhances flavors but also helps soak up every last drop of the savory broth.

Pairing these sides not only creates balance but also enhances the comforting essence of your meal, bringing warmth to your dinner table. You might even want to add a favorite dessert like a warm apple crumble for a sweet finish!

Savory Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf, studded with herbs and spices, offers a wonderful base to enjoy alongside the stew, soaking up the delicious juices.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized root veggies add a textured contrast and bring a pop of flavor, complementing the stew beautifully.
Cheesy Polenta: Creamy, cheesy polenta serves as a smooth foundation beneath the meatball stew, elevating the entire dining experience.

Every option provides a unique twist, ensuring each meal feels lovingly crafted and deeply satisfying.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatballs up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Similarly, chop your vegetables (onions, carrots, and potatoes) a day ahead and keep them refrigerated to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply sauté the aromatics, add the prepared broth and veggies, and toss in your already prepped meatballs. They’ll be just as delicious, and your stew will be ready in no time—a comforting meal while saving you precious minutes on those busy weeknights!

Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for my stew?
Absolutely! When choosing your vegetables, opt for firm baby potatoes without any dark spots, which can indicate overripeness. Select fresh carrots that are smooth and vibrant in color, and for the onion and garlic, look for firm bulbs without any sprouting. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor, making your Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew even more delightful.

How should I store leftovers of the meatball stew?
Very! Leftover Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to preserve freshness. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, simply add a splash of broth or water!

Can I freeze the Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew?
Absolutely! This stew is freezer-friendly. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop to retain its wonderful texture and flavor.

What if my stew isn’t thickening properly?
No worries! If your Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew isn’t thickening as you hoped, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the simmering stew, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This will help achieve that hearty consistency with each spoonful!

Is this stew suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! You can easily adjust the Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew to accommodate dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, ensure your Worcestershire sauce or any meatballs used are gluten-free. Additionally, for a lighter meal, consider substituting turkey meatballs or using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Always check ingredient labels for allergens specific to you or your loved ones.

Are homemade meatballs better than frozen ones?
While frozen meatballs can save time, I often recommend homemade for an enhanced flavor. If you choose to go the homemade route, form your meatballs using ground meat, breadcrumbs, and spices, then bake or pan-fry them beforehand. This can result in a heartier and more personalized twist to your Easy One-Pot Meatball Stew!