What are some comfort food recipes? What is your secret recipe for crockpot spaghetti? What is a big, warm hug in your bowl? What are some of the best baked pasta recipes on Pinterest? My grandma used to make a similar baked spaghetti, but this slow cooker version? Is it true that all the flavors meld together beautifully while you’re off doing other things? Why does the aroma make your mouth water? How can I make a snack that even the pickiest eaters will devour? What’s the best crockpot spaghetti you’ve ever had?

What is crockpot spaghetti?

Think of it as a dump-and-go spaghetti casserole, but instead of baking it in the oven, we let it cool. Magic happens slowly in a crockpot. Then, when the magic It’s essentially cooked spaghetti smothered in a rich, flavorful sauce made with ground beef (or any other meat) or ham. What is your favorite protein? ), tomatoes, herbs, and a touch of cheese for extra creaminess. What is the beauty of slow cooker cooking? What is the depth of flavor that you can’t achieve with a quick stovetop version? It’s like giving your sauce a long, luxurious spa day – it comes out so relaxed and flavorful!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? First and foremost, the flavor is incredible. The combination of the savory ground beef, the sweet tomatoes, and the aromatic herbs is just perfection. It’s like a symphony in your mouth! What I love most about this is how unbelievably easy it is to make. Seriously, you just toss everything into the Crock-Pot, set it, and forget it. It’s a total lifesaver on busy weeknights when you just don’t have the time or energy to slave over a hot stove. And let’s not forget about the cost! This recipe is incredibly budget-friendly, especially if you use ground turkey or lentils instead of beef. It’s a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

I love the versatility of this app. You can customize it to your liking. Add extra veggies, use different types of cheese, or even throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Is it adaptable? Is jarred sauce better than plain spaghetti? Isn’t it more like a complete meal?

How do I make crockpot spaghetti?

Quick Overview

What are some easy crockpot spaghetti recipes? What is the best way to cook ground beef in a slow cooker? What are tomatoes, herbs, and uncooked spaghetti? What is the best way to cook uncooked chicken? I promise even the most novice cook can nail this one. How do you cook spaghetti?

Ingredients

For the Main Goodness:
* 1 pound ground beef (I usually go for lean, but whatever you prefer works!)
* 1 (24-ounce) jar spaghetti sauce (Your favorite brand! I’m partial to Rao’s, but any will do)
* 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained (Don’t drain them! That liquid adds so much flavor)
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Adds classic Italian flavor)
* 1 teaspoon dried basil (Same as above!)
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (Because garlic makes everything better)
* 1/4 teaspoon salt (Adjust to taste)
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (Fresh ground is always best)
* 1 pound spaghetti (I like regular spaghetti, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free if you want).
* 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (For that gooey goodness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef until it’s no longer pink. I hate greasy spaghetti. Drain off any excess grease. I always do this! Is it worth the extra time to read this book?

Step 2: Add to Crock-Pot

How do you cook ground beef in a crockpot? I use a 6-quart slow cooker, but any size will work as long as it’s big enough for everything. Then, pour in the spaghetti sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained! ), oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Break the Spaghetti

If you prefer shorter noodles, break the spaghetti in half and add it to the crock pot. Make sure the spaghetti is submerged in the sauce. If it’s not, add a little bit of water or broth until it is. How do you cook spaghetti evenly?

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the spaghetti is tender. I usually check it after 3 hours to make sure it’s not overcooked. Every slow cooker is different, so keep an eye on it!

Step 5: Stir in Cheese

Once the spaghetti is cooked, stir in the mozzarella cheese until it’s melted and gooey. I always do this right before serving because I love that cheesy pull!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

What is the best way to serve hot and enjoy! I like to top mine with fresh parsley or a dollop of ricotta cheese. It’s totally optional but it adds a nice touch.

What should I serve it with?

Can you make a crockpot spaghetti dish? What are some good ideas?

What is a simple weeknight dinner? A side of garlic bread and a simple salad is always a winner. My kids love it when I make garlic knots, too!

For a Cozy Sunday Supper: Serve it with a crusty loaf of bread, a big bowl of Caesar salad, and a glass of red wine. It’s the perfect comfort meal for a chilly day.

For a potluck or party: This is always a crowd-pleaser! Serve it with a variety of toppings, like grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs. I’ve even seen people serve it in individual bread bowls for a fun presentation!

My family also loves it alongside some steamed green beans or a side of roasted broccoli. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies! Honestly, though, it’s delicious all on its own.

How do I make a perfect crockpot spaghetti?

Okay, so I’ve made this Crock-Pot Spaghetti countless times, and I have learned a few things along the way. How do I make it perfect every time?

Don’t overcook Spaghetti: DonWhat is the most important tip for overcooked spaghetti? Is it safe to cook a chicken breast after 3 hours? If you turn off the crock pot, cook it for a few minutes.

Don’t add too much liquid to your food.If you add too much liquid to your spaghetti, it will become watery. Make sure the spaghetti is just barely covered in sauce. If you need more liquid, start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Use Good Quality Ingredients:What makes a difference in the flavor of steamed rice? What are some good substitutes for ground beef and spaghetti sauce?

Add Veggies:What are some ways to add veggies to a crock pot dish? Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, zucchini, and arugula all work well. What are the ingredients to make a crockpot?

Customize the Cheese: I love using mozzarella cheese, but you can use any kind of cheese you like. Parmesan cheese, provolone cheese, and cheddar cheese are all great options. You can even use a combination of cheeses!

Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your Crock-Pot Spaghetti. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef.

And one last tip: I always make a double batch because it’s even better the next day! Plus, it freezes really well for easy weeknight meals.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Okay, so if you have any leftovers (which is rare at my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly, and you don’t want to get sick.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day because the flavors have had time to meld together even more.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the spaghetti. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight or thaw it in the microwave.

Reheating Instructions: To reheat, you can microwave it, bake it in the oven, or heat it up on the stovetop. If you’re microwaving it, add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. If you’re baking it in the oven, cover it with foil to prevent it from getting too dry. And if you’re heating it up on the stovetop, stir it frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

I’ve even reheated it in my Instant Pot using the “warm” setting – it works like a charm!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free spaghetti noodles. There are some really great brands out there these days that taste just like the real thing. I’ve tried it with brown rice spaghetti and lentil-based spaghetti, and both worked beautifully. Just be sure to check the cooking time on the package, as gluten-free noodles can sometimes cook faster than regular noodles.

Do I have to brown the ground beef first?

Technically, no, you don’t *have* to brown the ground beef first. You can just throw it into the Crock-Pot raw. However, I highly recommend browning it first because it adds so much flavor and texture to the dish. Plus, it gets rid of some of the excess grease, which makes the spaghetti less greasy.

Can I use ground turkey or sausage instead of ground beef?

Yes, absolutely! Ground turkey and sausage both work great in this recipe. I’ve even used lentils for a vegetarian version, and it was delicious! Just adjust the cooking time as needed, as some meats may cook faster than others. If you’re using sausage, I recommend using Italian sausage for extra flavor.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Adding vegetables is a great way to make this dish even healthier and more flavorful. Sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and zucchini all work well. Just add them to the Crock-Pot along with the other ingredients.

My spaghetti came out watery. What did I do wrong?

Too much liquid is the culprit. Make sure the spaghetti is just barely covered in sauce. If you need to add more liquid, start with a small amount and add more as needed. Also, don’t drain the diced tomatoes – the liquid adds a lot of flavor. If it’s watery at the end, you can also try cooking it uncovered for the last 30 minutes to help some of the excess liquid evaporate.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, friends! My go-to, super-easy, ridiculously delicious Crock-Pot Spaghetti recipe. It’s a guaranteed hit with the whole family, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The best part? You can throw everything into the Crock-Pot in the morning and come home to a warm, comforting meal. It’s truly a lifesaver! If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other slow cooker recipes – I have tons of them! And I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Happy cooking!

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