Crock Pot Spaghetti

Recipe at a Quick Glance

• Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ground beef
• Family-Tested: Kid-approved and perfect for picky eaters
• Real-Life Prep Time: 15 minutes prep, slow cooker does the rest
• Method: Slow Cooker (Crock Pot)
• Freezer-Friendly: Yes (best frozen after cooking)
• Best For: Busy weeknights, meal prep, feeding a crowd

Ingredients

• Ground beef – We typically use 80/20 for the best flavor, but leaner ground beef works too—just add a little extra seasoning if needed. Ground turkey is a great budget-friendly substitute.
• Spaghetti sauce – Use your favorite jarred sauce to keep things quick and affordable. Store brands work great here. If you have homemade sauce, this is a perfect way to use it.
• Chicken broth – This helps cook the pasta and keeps everything from drying out. You can swap in beef broth or even water in a pinch, but broth adds more flavor.
• Italian seasoning – A simple way to add flavor without measuring multiple spices. You can substitute a mix of oregano, basil, and parsley if needed.
• Salt, Black pepper, & Garlic powder – Added to balance flavors.
• Spaghetti – Break the noodles in half so they fit easily in the slow cooker and cook evenly. Make sure they’re fully covered in liquid.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a nice finishing touch, but the recipe is still flavorful without it if you need to save a little money.
  

How to Make Crock Pot Spaghetti

Step 1 – In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 lb ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2 – Transfer the cooked beef to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add two 24-oz jars spaghetti sauce (or 6 cups homemade sauce), 3 cups chicken broth, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Stir to combine.

Step 3 – Break 1 lb dry spaghetti in half and stir it into the sauce mixture, pressing the noodles down so they are fully submerged.

Step 4 – Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–2½ hours, until the noodles are tender. Stir once halfway through cooking if possible to ensure even cooking.

Step 5 – Stir well before serving and top with ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Submerge the noodles fully to avoid dry or crunchy spots.
• Stir halfway through cooking if you’re home—it makes a big difference in texture.
• Check early: Slow cookers vary, so check noodles at the earlier time range.
• Don’t overcook: Pasta can get soft quickly once done.

Variations & Substitutions

• Ground turkey or chicken: Works great for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Stir in diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms when browning the meat.
• Use different pasta: Short pasta like penne or rotini can work, but check earlier for doneness.
• Make it cheesy: Stir in shredded mozzarella at the end for a creamy twist.

Serving Recommendations

This is an easy meal on its own, but adding a simple side can help stretch it further and round out dinner.

• Garlic Bread: A budget-friendly favorite that makes the meal more filling
• Side Salad: A simple green salad or Caesar salad adds something fresh
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots are easy and affordable options
• Roasted Vegetables: Use whatever you have on hand for a quick sheet pan side

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Reheat: Add a splash of water or broth before reheating to loosen the sauce.
• Freezer: Freeze after cooking in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.