Crockpot Pasta Recipe – How to Make Slow Cooker Pasta (Easy & Vegetarian)

If you’re looking for a comforting, cheesy, and wholesome meal that’s almost effortless, this Crockpot Pasta recipe is perfect. Made with whole wheat pasta, a mix of fresh vegetables, rich tomato sauce, and a blend of three cheeses, this slow cooker pasta is hearty, healthy, and family-friendly.

This vegetarian Italian-inspired dish requires only a little prep—just sautéing some veggies and layering ingredients—then your slow cooker does all the work.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pasta

• Hands-off cooking: Just layer, set, and forget.

• Healthy comfort food: Uses whole wheat pasta, nutrient-packed veggies, and light cheese.

• Versatile: Make it vegetarian or add meat for extra protein.

• Crowd-pleaser: Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.

Ingredients for Crockpot Pasta

• Whole Wheat Pasta (3 cups, uncooked) – Penne or rotini works best. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti since they clump in a slow cooker.

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta, but check for doneness earlier since it cooks faster.

• Ricotta Cheese (1 cup, part-skim)

• Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded, part-skim)

• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated)

• Vegetables

  • Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced)

  • Red Onion (1 medium, chopped)

  • Red Bell Pepper (1, diced)

  • Fresh Spinach (2 cups, roughly chopped) – optional but adds extra nutrients.

• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)

• Tomato Pasta Sauce (4 cups, store-bought or homemade) – Choose roasted garlic or marinara for best flavor.

• Egg (1, large) – helps bind the ricotta layer.

• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – for sautéing vegetables.

• Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)

Optional Add-Ins

• Meat Lovers Version: Brown ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage with the vegetables before layering.

• Extra Veggies: Zucchini, eggplant, or carrots also work well.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onion, and bell pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and spinach; cook for another 1–2 minutes until spinach wilts. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan. Mix well.

Step 3: Layer the Pasta in the Slow Cooker

1. Grease the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray.

2. Spread a thin layer of pasta sauce at the bottom.

3. Add half of the uncooked pasta.

4. Pour more sauce over the pasta.

5. Spread half of the ricotta mixture.

6. Add half of the sautéed vegetables.

Step 4: Repeat Layers

Repeat the process with remaining pasta, sauce, ricotta mixture, and vegetables. Top with the remaining sauce.

Step 5: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Slow Cook

• Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or until pasta is tender.

• Check occasionally after 2 ½ hours to avoid overcooking, especially if using gluten-free pasta.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a restaurant-style finish.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven with a splash of sauce to keep pasta moist.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Pasta

• Don’t overcook pasta—check early for tenderness.

• Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber and nutrition.

• Add more sauce if you prefer a creamier consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Pasta recipe is proof that you can enjoy Italian-style comfort food with minimal effort. It’s cheesy, hearty, and versatile—perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. Whether you keep it vegetarian or add meat, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table.

enjoy!