Crockpot Spaghetti
A delightful and comforting dish that combines traditional Italian pasta and rich sauce, made effortlessly in a slow cooker.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian (with substitutions)
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then add the cooked meat to the crockpot.
- Add vegetables: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic directly into the crockpot with the meat.
- Incorporate the tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Season the sauce: Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the sauce mixture. Stir until fully incorporated.
- Slow cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, allowing the flavors to combine beautifully.
- Cook the pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, break the uncooked spaghetti in half and gently stir it into the sauce. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Serve and enjoy: Dish out the spaghetti, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and enjoy the comforting flavors of your warm meal.
Notes
Customize with veggies or use plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.