Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti
Ingredients:
2 lbs ground beef (or Italian sausage for more flavor)
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 (24 oz) jars pasta sauce (use your favorite brand or homemade)
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional, for added texture and depth)
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp sugar (helps balance acidity in the sauce)
1 tsp salt, or to taste
½ tsp black pepper
1 lb spaghetti noodles, broken in half
4 cups water or low-sodium beef broth
1 cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for topping)
½ cup grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Meat (Prep – 15 minutes)
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage with the diced onion until the meat is fully browned and the onions are soft—about 7–8 minutes. Drain off any excess grease. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Layer the Sauce in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked meat mixture into a 6-quart (or larger) slow cooker. Add the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine well.
Step 3: Cook the Sauce (Slow Cook – 3 to 4 hours on LOW)
Cover and cook the meat sauce mixture on LOW for 3 to 4 hours. This allows the flavors to develop and meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Pasta (Final Hour)
After the sauce has simmered for a few hours, stir in the broken spaghetti noodles and 4 cups of water or broth. Press the noodles down gently so they’re mostly submerged in liquid. Cover and cook on LOW for another 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Note: Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker. Check after 45 minutes to ensure the noodles are not overcooked.
Step 5: Final Touches (Optional)
Once the spaghetti is tender and the sauce has thickened, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top. Cover for an additional 5–10 minutes to melt the cheese. Serve warm with grated Parmesan and fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 hours | Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: ~520 kcal per serving (estimate based on standard ingredients) | Servings: 8