Slow Cooker Spaghetti

There’s something magical about a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Spaghetti on a chilly evening. I can still remember the first time I made it for my family. It was one of those busy weeknights, and I needed a dish that would satisfy everyone without consuming my entire evening. As the aroma of simmering spaghetti sauce filled the kitchen, I felt the day’s stress start to melt away. It’s one of those recipes that you can set and forget, allowing you to tend to other tasks or simply relax. This dish is comforting, hearty, and absolutely delicious. When dinner was finally served, my family gathered around the table, and the laughter and warmth made the meal even more special. I love how this recipe brings people together, creating memorable moments over a simple yet flavorful dish that everyone loves.

What Goes Into Slow Cooker Spaghetti

When it comes to the ingredients for Slow Cooker Spaghetti, each component plays a vital role in bringing this dish to life. The combination of ground meat, aromatic vegetables, and high-quality pasta sauce creates a rich, comforting meal that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare.

• 1 pound lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken: The protein base that adds heartiness to the dish.
• 1/2 onion, finely diced: Adds a sweet and aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to cook the ground meat and adds a rich flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor to elevate the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
• 26 ounce jarred pasta sauce: The base of the sauce that creates a deliciously rich flavor.
• 1 cup water: Helps to achieve the right consistency for the sauce.
• 1 pound spaghetti noodles: The classic pasta choice that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a cheesy, creamy finish to the dish.

Step by Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Spaghetti

Making Slow Cooker Spaghetti is a breeze, and I love that it requires minimal effort for a maximum payoff. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

1. Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Drizzle in the olive oil, allowing it to warm up before adding the ground meat, onion, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and the onion is tender.
2. Once the meat is ready, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step is crucial to prevent a greasy sauce.
3. Now, pour one jar of pasta sauce into the bottom of your slow cooker. This will create a flavorful base for the noodles.
4. Next, add 1 cup of water into the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce, ensuring that everything is well combined.
5. It’s time to break the spaghetti noodles in half. Place them gently on top of the sauce mixture in the slow cooker. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.
6. Layer the cooked meat mixture on top of the spaghetti noodles. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the meat, adding a creamy texture that will melt into the dish.
7. Now, cover everything with the second jar of pasta sauce. Make sure it’s evenly distributed to keep the noodles moist while they cook.
8. Secure the lid on your slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 2 to 2 and a half hours or low for 6 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and delicious meal.
9. When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid. Stir everything together, making sure to combine all the ingredients for a consistent flavor throughout.

Make It Your Own

One of the best aspects of Slow Cooker Spaghetti is its versatility! There are countless ways to customize it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the Slow Cooker Spaghetti for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms to make a hearty vegetarian version.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Cheesy Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or ricotta, for added creaminess.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the dish and add freshness.

Perfect Pairings for Slow Cooker Spaghetti

When serving Slow Cooker Spaghetti, consider these excellent pairings and occasions:

• Garlic Bread: A classic companion to any pasta dish, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the richness of the spaghetti beautifully.
• Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, as it serves a crowd effortlessly.
• Casual Gatherings: Whether it’s a movie night or a laid-back get-together with friends, Slow Cooker Spaghetti is always a hit.
• Winter Evenings: A warm bowl of spaghetti is perfect for cozy winter nights when you want to wrap up with something comforting.
• Meal Prepping: Ideal for meal prep, just reheat and enjoy throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly Dinners: This dish appeals to children and parents alike, making it a go-to for busy nights.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Slow Cooker Spaghetti is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. The rich flavors and easy preparation make it a perfect choice for any weeknight dinner. So, gather your ingredients, set that slow cooker, and enjoy a comforting bowl of spaghetti tonight!

Slow Cooker Spaghetti

The ultimate comfort food, Slow Cooker Spaghetti is a rich, hearty dish that cooks to perfection in your slow cooker. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a flavorful meal that brings the family together. Make it tonight for an easy weeknight dinner!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey or chicken
• 1/2 onion finely diced onion
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 26 ounce jarred pasta sauce
• 1 cup water
• 1 pound spaghetti noodles
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Grater
• Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Drizzle in the olive oil, allowing it to warm up before adding the ground meat, onion, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and the onion is tender.
2. Once the meat is ready, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step is crucial to prevent a greasy sauce.
3. Now, pour one jar of pasta sauce into the bottom of your slow cooker. This will create a flavorful base for the noodles.
4. Next, add 1 cup of water into the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce, ensuring that everything is well combined.
5. It’s time to break the spaghetti noodles in half. Place them gently on top of the sauce mixture in the slow cooker. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.
6. Layer the cooked meat mixture on top of the spaghetti noodles. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the meat, adding a creamy texture that will melt into the dish.
7. Now, cover everything with the second jar of pasta sauce. Make sure it’s evenly distributed to keep the noodles moist while they cook.
8. Secure the lid on your slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 2 to 2 and a half hours or low for 6 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and delicious meal.
9. When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid. Stir everything together, making sure to combine all the ingredients for a consistent flavor throughout.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the Slow Cooker Spaghetti for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Tip 3: Serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: Substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms to make a hearty vegetarian version.
• Tip 5: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Tip 6: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or ricotta, for added creaminess.
• Tip 7: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the dish and add freshness.

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Meet Violet Lane

The Creative Spark I see the kitchen as my art studio. I love experimenting with colors and textures, and I’m usually the one asking, “What if we added this?” I encourage the team to take risks and try new flavor combinations. I love the energy of cooking with six other people it’s chaotic, colorful, and inspiring. I’m hands-on with the cooking and styling, always trying to make our plates look as artistic as they taste.