Slow Cooker Spaghetti Casserole

Why Make This Recipe

Slow Cooker Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for busy families and anyone who loves a good pasta dish. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s packed with flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the spaghetti to cook to perfection. It’s a great way to make a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Slow Cooker Spaghetti Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 24 oz jar marinara sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz uncooked spaghetti, broken in half
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and garlic. Drain any excess fat.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the cooked ground beef mixture, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Break the uncooked spaghetti into halves and add it to the slow cooker, stirring gently to ensure the pasta is submerged in the sauce.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3–4 hours or until the pasta is tender and cooked through. Stir halfway through the cooking time to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
5. About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top of the casserole. Cover and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Spaghetti Casserole

Serve your Slow Cooker Spaghetti Casserole warm right from the slow cooker. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, add your favorite vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli. The gooey melted cheese on top makes it a hit with both kids and adults!

How to Store Slow Cooker Spaghetti Casserole

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. You can store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Spaghetti Casserole

• Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms.
• For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño.
• To make it healthier, use lean ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute.

Variation

You can easily turn this into a vegetarian dish by omitting the ground beef and adding more vegetables or even beans for protein. Substitute the marinara sauce with a roasted red pepper sauce for a different flavor twist.

FAQs

Can I use whole grain spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti?
Yes, whole grain spaghetti works well and adds extra fiber to the dish.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just dump them into the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to swap mozzarella and Parmesan for your favorite cheeses, like cheddar or provolone, to change the flavor profile.