There’s nothing quite like the convenience of a crockpot meal. It allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while you get on with your day. Today, we’re diving into a comforting dish that’s both simple to prepare and enticingly delicious: Crockpot Ground Beef Pasta. This recipe offers a delightful blend of seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all cooked to perfection in your crockpot.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Equipment
- Crockpot or slow cooker
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
How to Make Crockpot Ground Beef Pasta – Step By Step
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and cooked through. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Dice your onion and mince the garlic cloves finely. Preparing these ahead of time allows you to effortlessly add them in when needed without halting the cooking process.
Step 3: Load the Crockpot
Add the browned ground beef, diced onions, minced garlic, marinara sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper into your crockpot. Stir everything together, ensuring the meat is evenly coated with the sauce and seasonings.
Step 4: Cook it Low and Slow
Set your crockpot to low and let it cook for 4 hours. During this time, the flavors will blend marvelously, with the beef becoming tender and juicy while absorbing the robust flavors from the sauce.
Step 5: Add the Pasta
After 4 hours, stir in the pasta. Ensure it’s submerged in the sauce, which will help it cook evenly. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes or until the pasta reaches your preferred level of tenderness.
Step 6: Finish with Cheese
Once pasta is cooked, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture. Stir gently to incorporate. The cheese will melt, giving the dish a creamy, delicious finish.
How to Serve Crockpot Ground Beef Pasta
Garnish your Crockpot Ground Beef Pasta with fresh parsley or basil for added freshness and color. Serve it with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete and fulfilling meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a dash of hot sauce for some heat. If you’re a fan of vegetables, tossing in some bell peppers or zucchini will add depth and nutrients to the meal.
Power-Packed Variation: High Protein Crockpot Beef Pasta
Looking to amp up your protein intake? Swap the regular pasta for a high-protein alternative like chickpea pasta. Adding some extra lean meats like turkey or chicken sausage could also boost your protein levels without altering the delicious taste profile of this dish.
Low-Carb Delight: Carb-Smart Crockpot Ground Beef Pasta
If you’re watching your carb intake, consider using spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles as a pasta substitute. These options maintain the satisfying texture of traditional pasta but with a fraction of the carbohydrates.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through.
FAQs
- Can you make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, transfer everything to the crockpot and proceed with cooking.
- What if my pasta is too firm after cooking? If your pasta isn’t soft enough, continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, check frequently until it reaches the desired texture.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to try mozzarella or a combination of your favorite cheeses for a unique twist.
- What can I add for more flavor? Fresh herbs, a squirt of lemon juice, or a handful of olives can enhance the flavor profile of this dish.
A Delicious Tradition: Share Your Experience
This crockpot ground beef pasta recipe is a winner for family dinners or cozy gatherings. We encourage you to share your cooking experiences and variations in the comments below. Don’t forget to rate this recipe and share it with your friends and family!
Crockpot Ground Beef Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- pasta
- marinara sauce
- beef broth
- onion
- garlic
- Italian seasoning
- salt
- black pepper
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Steps
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, drain excess fat, and set aside.
- Add diced onions and minced garlic to the crockpot.
- Mix in marinara sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook on low for 4 hours.
- Add pasta and cook for additional 30 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese before serving.