Slow Cooker Spaghetti with Meat Sauce – Hearty & Flavorful Comfort Food
Looking for the ultimate weeknight dinner that’s both hands-off and packed with flavor? This Slow Cooker Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is a rich, savory pasta dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, herbs, and garlic. Slow cooking enhances the flavors, resulting in a comforting Italian-style meal the whole family will love. Best of all? It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce
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2 pounds ground beef (lean or extra lean)
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1 large onion, chopped
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
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1/2 cup red wine (optional – enhances richness)
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1 tablespoon sugar
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2 teaspoons dried basil
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2 teaspoons dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried parsley
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 pound spaghetti, uncooked
How to Make Slow Cooker Spaghetti – Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to prevent a greasy sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté for 3–5 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This helps build the foundational flavor.
Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Transfer the beef and onion mixture to your slow cooker. Then, add:
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Crushed tomatoes
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Tomato sauce
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Tomato paste
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Red wine (optional)
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Sugar
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Basil, oregano, parsley
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Crushed red pepper flakes
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Salt and pepper to taste
Step 4: Slow Cook the Sauce
Stir everything well to combine.
Cover and cook:
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On LOW for 6–8 hours
or -
On HIGH for 3–4 hours
The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
About 20–30 minutes before serving, cook the spaghetti noodles in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Cook until al dente, then drain.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Gently fold the cooked spaghetti into the slow cooker sauce. Stir until the pasta is fully coated with the rich, meaty sauce.
Step 7: Let the Flavors Marry
Cover and let the spaghetti sit in the sauce for an additional 10 minutes before serving. This allows the pasta to soak up even more flavor.
Serving Suggestions
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Top with fresh basil or chopped parsley
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Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese
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Serve with garlic bread and a side Caesar salad
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Pair with a glass of red wine for an elevated touch
Recipe Variations & Expert Tips
Vegetarian Option:
Skip the meat and use a hearty blend of chopped zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers, and lentils, or substitute with plant-based ground meat.
Creamy Upgrade:
Add ½ cup of heavy cream or a handful of Parmesan cheese toward the end of cooking for a creamy, indulgent version.
Spicy Kick:
Like heat? Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
Gluten-Free Version:
Use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti noodles for a celiac-friendly meal.
Make-Ahead Tip:
The sauce can be made in advance and frozen. Just thaw and reheat with fresh pasta when ready.