Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce is a classic dish that brings comfort and warmth to your dining table. It’s a perfect blend of flavors, easy to prepare, and a surefire way to please your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just want to enjoy a cozy night in, this hearty sauce becomes a staple in your kitchen, making mealtime enjoyable and hassle-free.
Why We Love This Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
There’s something undeniably special about a slow-cooked spaghetti sauce. The beauty of this Crock Pot recipe lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor that develops over time. Using a slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and savory sauce that elevates your pasta to a whole new level. Besides, the hands-off approach offers you the freedom to tackle other tasks while your sauce simmers away, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce
Creating this delectable sauce requires just a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
- 1 carrot, shredded (optional)
These ingredients work harmoniously to create a sauce that is both hearty and flavorful. Feel free to customize the sauce with optional ingredients based on your personal preference.
How to Make Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce Directions
Making your own spaghetti sauce in a crock pot is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that will impress everyone at the table:
- Brown the Beef: Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it’s browned. This step is essential as it adds depth of flavor to your sauce.
- Sauté Aromatics: Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Drain Excess Fat: Once the meat and onion mixture is ready, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This ensures your sauce isn’t greasy.
- Transfer to Crock Pot: Carefully transfer the cooked beef mixture into your slow cooker. Make sure to scrape any bits stuck to the skillet into the pot to capture all the flavor.
- Mix in Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. If you’re using the optional bell pepper and shredded carrot, toss those in as well.
- Stir Thoroughly: Give everything a good stir to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. This is key to achieving that vibrant flavor throughout your sauce.
- Set to Cook: Cover the crock pot and set it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low helps to develop the flavors and allows the ingredients to marry beautifully.
- Final Touches: About 30 minutes before serving, give your sauce a taste. If it needs more seasoning, adjust with additional salt, pepper, or herbs.
With these straightforward instructions, you can easily prepare a mouthwatering spaghetti sauce that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
How to Serve Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce
Once your sauce is ready, it’s time to take the meal to the next level. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
- Serve Over Pasta: The traditional way to enjoy this sauce is over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you prefer spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine, any shape will work wonderfully.
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, on top for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color. You could also add freshly grated cheese if you like.
- Pair with Sides: To make your meal even more satisfying, serve your spaghetti with garlic bread and a fresh salad. The combination makes for a wholesome and delightful dinner experience.
- Make it a Feast: If you’re hosting a gathering, consider preparing a larger batch to accommodate your guests. Your friendly and inviting sauce will surely be a highlight of the meal.
By serving your crock pot spaghetti sauce in these ways, you create not just a meal, but an experience that brings everyone together.
Expert Tips: Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce
While this recipe is simple, a few expert tips can take it to the next level:
- Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality canned tomatoes and fresh herbs. Quality can greatly enhance the overall taste of your sauce.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook a little longer with the lid off during the last hour. The steam will help reduce the liquid.
- Add Variety: Feel free to mix and match with different vegetables. Zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach can be great additions to boost nutrition.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking for a spicy twist.
- Make Ahead of Time: This sauce can be made ahead and freezes well. Make a double batch and keep it in the freezer for quick meals on busy days.
With these tips, you’ll become confident in crafting the perfect crock pot spaghetti sauce, tailored to your taste.
How to Store Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce
Leftover spaghetti sauce is a fantastic way to save time for another meal. Here’s how to store it properly:
- Cool Down: Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which could lead to spoilage.
- Refrigerate: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
- Freeze for Later: If you want to keep it longer, divide the sauce into portions and transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
By storing your sauce correctly, you can enjoy the rich flavors again without the need for a lengthy preparation process.
Variation of Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce
Explore these variations to add some creativity to your crock pot spaghetti sauce:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with lentils or a mix of mushrooms and chopped vegetables. This will create a hearty and nutritious meat-free sauce.
- Spicy Sausage: For a different flavor profile, substitute the ground beef with spicy Italian sausage. This twist adds new dimensions of taste.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs instead of dried. Adding fresh basil or thyme close to the end of cooking can offer brighter, more vibrant flavors.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some cream cheese or mozzarella towards the end of cooking for a creamy, cheesy sauce that coats your pasta beautifully.
These variations highlight the versatility of this recipe, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences and dietary needs.
FAQ
What is a good pasta to pair with Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce?
You can pair any pasta you like with this sauce, but classics such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne work particularly well.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works great in this sauce and can still deliver excellent flavor.
How long does Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, your spaghetti sauce can last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.
Can I add wine to Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce?
While this recipe does not include wine, you can infuse your sauce with rich flavors using additional herbs or spices.
What can I do if I don’t have a slow cooker?
If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can make this sauce on the stove. Simply simmer it on low heat for about an hour, stirring occasionally.
Enjoy whipping up this comforting Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce and watch how it becomes a beloved recipe in your home!
Crock Pot Spaghetti Sauce
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef You can substitute with ground turkey or spicy Italian sausage.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes, canned Use quality canned tomatoes for better flavor.
- 15 ounces tomato sauce, canned
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste Thickens sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust according to preference.
Optional Ingredients
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped Add for extra flavor.
- 1 medium carrot, shredded For added sweetness and nutrition.
Instructions
Preparation
- Brown the beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onions are translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the crock pot, scraping any bits from the skillet into the pot.
- Mix in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add optional ingredients if desired.
- Stir thoroughly to combine ingredients.
Cooking
- Cover and set the crock pot to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Taste and adjust seasoning 30 minutes before serving.
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