Slow Cooker Amish Meatball Stew

by

Slow Cooker Amish Meatball Stew 🥘

Introduction

Slow Cooker Amish Meatball Stew is the definition of old-fashioned comfort food—simple pantry ingredients, hearty flavor, and a method that lets time do the work. Tender homemade meatballs simmer all day with potatoes, carrots, onions, and a rich savory broth until everything becomes melt-in-your-mouth delicious. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with a warm aroma and brings everyone to the table without being called twice.

A Little History

This style of stew reflects the cooking traditions of the communities of . Amish kitchens are known for practical, frugal meals made from farm-fresh ingredients. Stews were common because they could stretch inexpensive ingredients to feed large families while cooking slowly over the day as chores were done. Meatballs were often added to broths to make a little meat go a long way.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

  • 1½ lbs ground beef
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried parsley

For the Stew

  • 4 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 cups carrots, sliced
  • 1 cup celery, sliced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Thickener (optional)

  • 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water

Formation (How It Comes Together)

This stew builds flavor in layers:

  1. Seasoned meatballs create a rich base.
  2. Root vegetables add heartiness and natural sweetness.
  3. Slow simmering blends everything into a thick, savory broth.

Instructions

Step 1 – Make the Meatballs

  1. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley.
  2. Mix gently and form into 1-inch meatballs.

Step 2 – Layer the Slow Cooker

  1. Add potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion to the slow cooker.
  2. Place raw meatballs on top of the vegetables.

Step 3 – Add the Broth

  1. In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, water, tomato paste, thyme, parsley, and bay leaf.
  2. Pour over everything in the slow cooker.

Step 4 – Slow Cook

  • Cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours until meatballs are cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Step 5 – Thicken (Optional)

  • Stir in the cornstarch slurry during the last 20 minutes if you prefer a thicker stew.

Cooking Methods & Tips

  • Browning option: Brown meatballs in a skillet first for deeper flavor.
  • Vegetable swaps: Turnips or parsnips work beautifully here.
  • Make ahead: Flavors deepen even more the next day.
  • Freezer friendly: Stores well for up to 3 months.

Why People Love This Stew ❤️

  • Hearty and filling
  • Budget-friendly ingredients
  • True comfort food
  • Minimal prep with maximum flavor
  • Perfect for cold days or family dinners

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Amish Meatball Stew is a humble, satisfying dish rooted in tradition and practicality. With tender meatballs, wholesome vegetables, and a savory broth, it’s a meal that feels like home in every bite. Set it in the morning, forget about it, and come back to a dinner that tastes like it’s been lovingly tended all day.

Leave a Comment