Name: Crockpot Spaghetti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 480 min
Total time: 490 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground beef; 1 pound Bulk mild Italian sausage; 1 29-ounce Tomato sauce; 1 14.5-ounce Diced tomatoes; 1 14.5-ounce Stewed tomatoes; 1 6-ounce Tomato paste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 teaspoons Garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Dried basil; 1 teaspoon Dried oregano; 1 tablespoon Sugar

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of Crockpot Spaghetti. I remember the first time I prepared this dish; it was a chilly winter evening, and I craved a meal that would warm not just my belly but also my spirit. The aroma of the simmering sauce filled my kitchen, and I could hardly wait to dig in. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich, hearty sauce that pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta. It’s a family favorite that brings everyone together around the dinner table, reminiscing and sharing stories. I often make double the batch, knowing that the leftovers are just as delicious the next day, whether for lunch or dinner.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
8 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
480 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
25 g

Tools Used:
Electric can opener, Meat masher, Crock pot

Why This Crockpot Spaghetti Is a Winner

It’s a Time Saver

One of the best things about making Crockpot Spaghetti is how effortless it is. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you go about your day. It’s a lifesaver for busy families or anyone with a packed schedule. The beauty of slow cooking is that the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a taste that’s even better than if you had cooked it on the stovetop.

Perfect for Customization

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Want to add extra veggies? Go for it! You can sneak in some shredded carrots or chopped bell peppers without anyone noticing. Prefer a spicier kick? Just add some red pepper flakes to the mix. The possibilities are endless!

Flavorful and Satisfying

The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage creates a deliciously rich depth of flavor that is hard to beat. When these meats simmer in the sauce for hours, they absorb all the savory spices, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, the tomato sauce provides a refreshing acidity that balances the richness of the meat.

Feeds a Crowd

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or a casual get-together with friends, Crockpot Spaghetti is a dish that never disappoints. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily serve a large group. With this recipe, there’s no need to stress about what to serve at your next event. Just set it and forget it, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to please everyone.

Great for Leftovers

One of the best aspects of this dish is how well it keeps. If you have any leftovers, they make for fantastic meals the next day. Just reheat and enjoy! The flavors continue to enhance, making it even more flavorful. I often find myself looking forward to that second day when I can savor the delicious spaghetti again.

Comfort Food at its Best

In essence, Crockpot Spaghetti embodies comfort food. It’s hearty, satisfying, and makes you feel right at home. There’s something magical about sharing a meal like this with loved ones, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I can’t recommend it enough for cozy evenings in.

What You Need for Crockpot Spaghetti

When it comes to the ingredients for Crockpot Spaghetti, simplicity is key. Each ingredient plays a significant role in building the flavor profile. The ground beef and Italian sausage provide a meaty base, while the various canned tomatoes add depth and sweetness. This combination works harmoniously to create a savory sauce that’s perfect for coating your favorite pasta.

1 pound ground beef: This is the primary protein source, offering a rich flavor that pairs well with the sauce.
1 pound bulk mild Italian sausage: Adds a wonderful spice and depth to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
1 (29-ounce) can tomato sauce: A base for the sauce that brings acidity and moisture; it’s a must-have for any spaghetti dish.
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes: Provides texture and a burst of freshness, adding to the sauce’s complexity.
1 (14.5-ounce) can stewed tomatoes: This gives a sweeter, more concentrated tomato flavor, enriching the sauce.
1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor, creating a luscious consistency.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the dish that classic Italian flavor.
2 teaspoons garlic powder: Adds an aromatic quality and enhances the savory notes of the sauce.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Offers a hint of sweetness and a fragrant aroma, essential for Italian cuisine.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Contributes an earthy flavor that complements the other herbs.
1 tablespoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and rounds out the flavors.

The Method for Crockpot Spaghetti

Cooking Crockpot Spaghetti is a breeze. The process is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy the delicious outcome without much fuss. Follow these simple steps to create a hearty, flavorful dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Start by placing the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. As they cook, use a spatula to break them apart into smaller pieces. You’ll want to cook them until they are fully browned and cooked through, which should take about 7 to 10 minutes. The aroma of the cooking meat will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water.
Once the meat is browned, carefully remove it from the skillet using a slotted spoon. This ensures that excess grease drains off. Transfer the cooked meat to the crock pot, where all the magic happens.
Next, add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, stewed tomatoes, and tomato paste into the crock pot. It’s essential to stir everything together until well combined. You’ll want to make sure that the meat is evenly distributed throughout the sauce, soaking up all those fantastic flavors.
Now, add the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, and sugar. Stir once again to incorporate all the spices, ensuring that each spoonful will be packed with flavor.
Cover the crock pot and set it to low heat. Allow the sauce to cook for about 8 to 10 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and hearty sauce. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high for 4 to 5 hours instead.
As the cooking time comes to an end, prepare your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. I love using spaghetti noodles for this dish, but feel free to use any pasta shape you enjoy.
Once the pasta is cooked and drained, it’s time to serve! Spoon the rich sauce over the pasta, ensuring each noodle is generously coated.
For an extra touch, you can garnish your dish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This adds a pop of color and enhances the overall presentation.
Finally, enjoy your Crockpot Spaghetti with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The flavors are best enjoyed together, making every bite a delightful experience.

Things Worth Knowing

Slow cooking enhances flavors: The longer you cook, the richer the flavors become as they meld together.
Meat choices matter: Using a combination of meats adds depth; feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat.
Stir occasionally: If possible, stir the sauce a couple of times during cooking to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving to adjust any seasonings according to your preference.

Expert Tips about Crockpot Spaghetti

Cooking Crockpot Spaghetti can be an enjoyable experience, especially with a few helpful tips. These suggestions will not only enhance the dish but also make your cooking process smoother. Let’s dive into my best tips for a successful spaghetti night!

Storage: Make sure to store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezing: You can freeze the sauce in portions for quick meals later on. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Pairing: It pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a crisp salad, creating a complete and satisfying meal.
Dress it up: Consider adding grated cheese on top when serving for an extra flavor boost.
Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce during cooking.

Accompaniments for Crockpot Spaghetti

Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread as a side to soak up the delicious sauce.
Salad: A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich spaghetti.
Wine Pairing: For those who enjoy wine, a light white or red can complement the dish beautifully.
Occasion: Perfect for cozy family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even meal prep for the week.
Storage Tips: Leftover spaghetti sauce can be stored in the freezer for future meals. Just thaw and enjoy!
Seasonal Pairings: During colder months, a hearty side like roasted vegetables can be great alongside this dish.

FAQ

Cooking Crockpot Spaghetti is quite simple. If you set your crock pot to low, it will typically take around 8 to 10 hours. For those in a hurry, you can set it to high for about 4 to 5 hours. The key is to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich sauce that’s bursting with taste.

Absolutely! One of the great things about Crockpot Spaghetti is its versatility. You can easily add a variety of vegetables to the sauce. Consider incorporating chopped bell peppers, diced carrots, or even spinach. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also add vibrant flavors and textures.

While traditional spaghetti noodles are a favorite for Crockpot Spaghetti, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta can work wonderfully. The important thing is to cook the pasta separately and combine it with the sauce just before serving for the best texture.

Yes, Crockpot Spaghetti is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and then just heat it up in the crock pot when you’re ready. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when hosting friends. Just cook your pasta fresh to serve alongside the reheated sauce for a delicious meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Crockpot Spaghetti is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. The combination of flavors and the ease of preparation make it a staple in my kitchen. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy of a warm, homemade spaghetti dinner with your loved ones. Trust me, once you give it a go, it will become a favorite in your home!