Introduction
Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking to prepare a meal in advance for your family.
this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy traditional spaghetti with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work.
allowing the flavors to meld together for a rich and savory sauce that pairs perfectly with spaghetti.
This dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and a set-it-and-forget-it cooking method.
you’ll be able to spend more time enjoying your company while your meal simmers to perfection. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions so you can create this mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 can (14 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried basil
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 package (16 ounces) spaghetti
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté them for a few minutes until.
the onion becomes soft and translucent. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic into the slow cooker, mixing them with the browned beef.
Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste into the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients evenly.
Add the dried basil, oregano, sugar, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir again to ensure that all the seasonings are distributed throughout the sauce.
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 4-6 hours. Allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to simmer, stirring occasionally if possible.
About 30 minutes before the sauce is ready, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stovetop. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, then drain the pasta.
Once the sauce is done, serve the cooked spaghetti with the slow-cooked sauce, and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
How to Make
To make this dish, start by browning the ground beef to develop a rich flavor base. While the beef is cooking, prepare your aromatics—chop the onion and mince.
the garlic—before combining them in the slow cooker with the beef. This step adds layers of flavor that are crucial for the sauce’s depth.
Adding canned tomatoes and tomato paste gives the sauce its rich, thick consistency, while dried herbs like basil and oregano bring that authentic Italian taste.
The addition of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, ensuring that the sauce isn’t too tart.
Once the slow cooker is set, the magic happens as it gently simmers, breaking down the tomatoes and infusing.
The beef with all the wonderful seasonings. While the sauce is cooking, you have plenty of time to prepare the pasta.
When the spaghetti is done cooking, simply toss it with the sauce, ensuring that every strand is coated in the flavorful mixture.
Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added richness and a final touch of flavor.
Variations
If you’re looking to add more vegetables, you can throw in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach to the slow cooker. These vegetables will soften in the sauce and add extra nutrients to the dish.
For a spicier kick, try adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or even a bit of hot sauce. This will elevate the flavor profile for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their pasta.
If you prefer a leaner option, you can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This alternative will create a lighter version of the dish without compromising on flavor.
For a more indulgent meal, consider adding a layer of mozzarella cheese to the sauce during the last hour of cooking.
The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the pasta.
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and add more vegetables. You can also add tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein that will still provide a satisfying texture.
Another variation is to experiment with different pasta types. You can use penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer, depending on your taste and the texture you’re aiming for.
For an extra rich flavor, try using fresh herbs instead of dried ones. Basil, oregano, and even thyme will infuse the sauce with a more vibrant, fresh taste.
Tips
Be sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly before adding it to the slow cooker. This step enhances the flavor and ensures that the beef won’t release too much fat into the sauce during the slow cooking process.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, feel free to cook the sauce on low for a longer period of time. The longer it simmers, the more concentrated and flavorful it will become.
Don’t forget to taste your sauce as it cooks. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed to suit your personal preferences.
For a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker once the sauce is finished cooking. This will break down the tomatoes and create a silky texture.
If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-cooked spaghetti, though freshly cooked pasta will absorb the sauce more effectively and provide a better texture.
When serving the spaghetti, consider adding a side salad and some garlic bread to round out the meal. These classic sides will complement the dish and make for a more complete supper.
If you have leftovers, store the spaghetti and sauce separately. This will help the pasta retain its texture and prevent it from getting soggy when reheated.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti is the perfect dish for busy days when you still want a home-cooked meal that’s both delicious and satisfying.
With its easy preparation and hands-off cooking method, this recipe ensures you can enjoy a hearty dinner without much fuss.
Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this spaghetti will surely become a favorite go-to recipe.
It’s the kind of dish that brings people together and fills the house with comforting aromas, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.