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A white bowl overflowing with crockpot spaghetti topped with a sprinkle of grated cheese.

Easy Crockpot Spaghetti

Bitty
This easy crockpot spaghetti is a rich, hearty, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and minimal cleanup, it’s a slow cooker favorite the whole family will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 6 hours
Course Main Course
Cuisine italian-american
Servings 6
Calories 410 kcal

Equipment

  • Crockpot / slow cooker
  • Skillet (if browning meat)
  • Wooden spoon
  • Ladle or tongs

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce:

  • 1 lb 450g ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 1 can 6 oz tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta:

  • 3 ½ cups water or low-sodium beef broth
  • 12 oz spaghetti broken in half

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • ½ cup chopped mushrooms
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • (Optional) In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with onion and garlic in olive oil until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  • Transfer the meat mixture to your crockpot. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and optional vegetables. Stir to combine.
    Crockpot spaghetti in a slow cooker with a spoon, garnished with fresh herbs.
  • Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
  • About 30–40 minutes before serving, stir in broken spaghetti noodles and water or broth. Ensure pasta is fully submerged.
    Crockpot spaghetti in a slow cooker, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
  • Cover and cook on HIGH for 30–40 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
  • Stir well, adjust seasonings, and garnish with Parmesan and fresh herbs before serving.
    A close-up shot of a large bowl filled with crockpot spaghetti topped with grated cheese.

Notes

Meat Options: Feel free to use ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian twist.
Browning for Flavor: Browning the meat with onions and garlic before adding to the crockpot enhances flavor, but it's optional if you’re short on time.
Broth for Depth: Using beef broth instead of water adds a richer, more robust flavor to your pasta.
Avoid Mushy Pasta: Be sure to add the spaghetti during the final 30–40 minutes to prevent overcooking.
Creamy Variation: For a creamy version, stir in ¼ cup of cream cheese or heavy cream just before serving.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or hot Italian sausage if you like heat.
Make Ahead Tip: Prepare the sauce the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, add to the crockpot and set it to cook while you’re at work.
Keyword crockpot spaghetti