Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this slow cooker spaghetti will become a favorite.
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Only 5 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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One pot. Minimal cleanup.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Saucy and savory. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves spaghetti.
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Budget-friendly. Ground beef, pasta, and sauce are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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1 pound ground beef (lean, 85–90% works well)
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1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
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3 cups low-sodium beef broth (or water)
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12 ounces spaghetti, broken in half
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil blend)
Ingredient Notes
Ground beef: Use lean ground beef. Brown it before adding.
Marinara sauce: Use your favorite jarred marinara or spaghetti sauce.
Beef broth: Adds moisture and flavor.
Spaghetti: Use dry spaghetti. Break it in half.
Italian seasoning: Adds savory herb flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.
Step 2: Add to the Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked ground beef to the slow cooker. Pour in the marinara sauce and beef broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Start the Sauce
Cover and cook the meat sauce mixture on LOW for 3 to 4 hours or on HIGH for 1.5 to 2 hours.
Step 4: Add the Spaghetti
About 45 to 60 minutes before serving, stir the sauce. Add the dry spaghetti, breaking the noodles in half. Press the pasta down into the liquid, making sure it is mostly submerged.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
Cover and cook on HIGH for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the spaghetti is tender but not mushy.
Step 6: Adjust and Serve
Once the spaghetti is cooked, give everything a good stir. If the sauce is too thick, add more broth. If it is too thin, leave the lid off for 5 to 10 minutes. Serve hot.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Spaghetti
This saucy, savory spaghetti is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
With Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch for heat.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with basil or parsley.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Ground Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for the beef.
Make It with Sausage: Use Italian sausage.
Make It with Different Pasta: Use penne or rotini.
Make It with Different Sauce: Use tomato basil or garlic herb sauce.
Make It with Vegetables: Add mushrooms or bell peppers.
Make It with Herbs: Add fresh basil or oregano.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Brown the beef for better flavor. This step is optional but recommended.
Do not overcook the pasta. It should be tender, not mushy.
Stir once or twice while cooking. This prevents sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Ground turkey or sausage can be used.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes. Penne or rotini can be used.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes. Tomato basil or garlic herb sauce can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my pasta mushy?
It was overcooked. Check at 30 minutes.
Why is my sauce thin?
The pasta did not absorb enough liquid. Let it rest.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add mushrooms or bell peppers.
Can I use a different pan?
This recipe is designed for a slow cooker.
The Beauty of One Pot Pasta
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, saucy spaghetti dinner that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This slow cooker spaghetti is a celebration of all those things.
Keep ground beef in your freezer. Keep pasta, sauce, and broth in your pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3–4 hours on LOW or 1.5–2 hours on HIGH, plus 30–45 minutes on HIGH
Total Time: Approximately 4 to 5 hours
Yield: 6 servings