Crockpot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce

Introduction

There’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of flavorful and hearty spaghetti with a robust meat sauce simmered to perfection. Crockpot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce brings ease and deliciousness together in one pot, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or lazy weekends. This dish lets you enjoy the classic Italian-American staple without the hassle of monitoring a stove. Whether you’re cooking for a big family or just want to prep something hands-off, this crockpot version delivers delicious results every time.

With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours—because it has! The flavors intensify and meld beautifully in the slow cooker, creating a rich, savory sauce that’s impossible to resist. In this article, we will guide you through making this beloved pasta dish with minimal effort and maximum flavor, right from your slow cooker.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound spaghetti
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Preparation:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. This step is important to develop flavor and remove excess grease. Once fully cooked, drain the fat and transfer the beef to your crockpot.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes or until the onions are soft and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness and flavor. Transfer this mixture to the crockpot to join the beef.

Step 3: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth to the crockpot. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. This step creates the foundation of your hearty meat sauce.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Letting the sauce cook slowly enhances the depth of flavor and creates a thick, luscious texture that clings perfectly to the pasta.

Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti

About 20 minutes before the sauce is done, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the hot spaghetti in bowls and generously ladle the meat sauce over the top. Finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and serve with your favorite side dishes.

Variation

• Healthier Meat Options: Use lean ground turkey or chicken in place of ground beef for a lower-fat version.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate diced mushrooms, bell peppers, or shredded carrots into the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese at the end for a creamy twist.

Cooking Note:

Taste your sauce before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more beef broth or pasta water. If it’s too thin, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to let it reduce slightly.

Serving Suggestions:

This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the rich sauce. A crisp green salad with Italian dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta. For drinks, a glass of red wine like Chianti or a sparkling water with lemon completes the meal beautifully.

Tips:

• Batch Cooking: Double the sauce recipe and freeze half for later use. It’s perfect for meal prep.
• Pasta Options: Use whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta if needed. This sauce also pairs well with penne, rigatoni, or linguine.
• Herbs: Add a bay leaf or a sprig of fresh thyme while cooking for added aroma and complexity.

Cooking Times:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
• Total Time: Around 6-8 hours

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

• Calories: 450 kcal per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 700mg

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A1: Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils, chopped mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a satisfying vegetarian version.

Q2: Can this be made on the stovetop instead?

A2: Yes. Follow the same steps using a large pot or Dutch oven. After combining all ingredients, let the sauce simmer on low for 1-2 hours.

Q3: How can I store leftovers?

A3: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Q4: Can I cook the pasta directly in the slow cooker?

A4: It’s possible, but not ideal. Pasta tends to get mushy in a slow cooker. For best results, cook it separately and combine just before serving.

Conclusion

Crockpot Spaghetti and Meat Sauce is the perfect marriage of convenience and comfort. With its rich and savory flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite. It’s also budget-friendly, kid-approved, and ideal for leftovers. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or planning a casual get-together, this dish has got you covered. Fire up that slow cooker, and let it do the work while you enjoy the aroma of a home-cooked Italian classic wafting through your kitchen.

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