Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Beef and Cheese Pasta – Easy, Cheesy, and Satisfying
If you’re looking for a quick-prep, family-friendly, and budget-friendly pasta dinner, this Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Beef and Cheese Pasta is the perfect choice. With just a few pantry staples—ground beef, marinara sauce, pasta, mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning—you’ll have a warm, cheesy, and comforting meal ready with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Only 5 ingredients – Simple yet full of flavor.
-
Hands-off cooking – The slow cooker does all the work.
-
Kid-approved – Creamy, cheesy, and mild in flavor.
-
Customizable – Easy to adapt with different cheeses, spices, or vegetables.
Ingredients
-
1 pound ground beef
-
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
-
3 cups uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, or your favorite short pasta)
-
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
-
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned and fully cooked.
-
Break it up into small crumbles as it cooks.
-
Drain any excess fat to avoid greasy pasta.
Step 2 – Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker. Add:
-
1 jar marinara sauce
-
3 cups uncooked pasta
-
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Stir everything together so the pasta is evenly coated with sauce.
Step 3 – Slow Cook
Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce.
-
Avoid overcooking, as pasta can become mushy.
Step 4 – Add the Cheese
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta.
-
Cover again and let the cheese melt into a gooey, creamy topping.
Step 5 – Serve & Enjoy
Once the cheese is fully melted, give the pasta a gentle stir (or leave it as a cheesy top layer) and serve hot.
Variations & Flavor Tips
-
Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño.
-
Cheese Swap – Try cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
-
Extra Veggies – Sauté bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini with the beef before adding to the slow cooker.
-
Creamy Upgrade – Stir in ½ cup cream cheese or sour cream before serving.
-
Protein Boost – Mix in cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken.
Storage & Reheating
-
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
-
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months (thaw overnight before reheating).
-
Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep the pasta from drying out.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Beef and Cheese Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With only five ingredients, it’s proof that simple recipes can be absolutely delicious.