Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti Recipe

Introduction

This Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for busy days. With tender meat sauce, creamy cheese layers, and perfectly cooked noodles, it’s a hands-off dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients

• 48 oz. pasta sauce (such as Ragu Old World Style, Newman’s Own Marinara, or Rao’s Marinara)
• 1 1/2 lbs. ground beef
• 1/2 cup diced white onion
• 1 minced garlic clove
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 1 lb. spaghetti noodles
• 4 ounces cream cheese (1/2 cup)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 tsp. salt (for cheese mixture)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Pour the jars of pasta sauce into the slow cooker. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and diced onions together. Once browned, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Drain any excess fat.
2. Step 2: Stir in the salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil to the meat mixture. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker with the sauce and stir to combine.
3. Step 3: Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours without opening the lid during cooking.
4. Step 4: After 6 hours, cook the spaghetti noodles on the stove according to package directions, boiling for about 8 minutes until al dente. Drain the noodles.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked noodles to the slow cooker with the sauce and meat mixture. Stir gently, then press the noodles down evenly in the slow cooker.
6. Step 6: In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. It’s okay if the cream cheese stays in small chunks.
7. Step 7: Dollop the cream cheese and ricotta mixture over the spaghetti and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over everything.
8. Step 8: Cover again and cook on LOW for an additional 20 minutes.
9. Step 9: Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, cheesy slow cooker baked spaghetti!

Tips & Variations

• Use your favorite pasta sauce brand or homemade marinara for a personalized touch.
• If you prefer, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of red wine when browning the meat.
• Try swapping mozzarella with provolone or Parmesan for different cheese profiles.
• Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or covered on the stove to keep the sauce creamy and the cheese melty. This dish does not freeze well due to the cheese mixture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I add the spaghetti noodles directly to the slow cooker without boiling?

It’s best to cook the spaghetti noodles first, as adding uncooked pasta directly to the slow cooker would result in unevenly cooked or mushy noodles.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the meat sauce and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Cook and add the noodles and cheese mixture just before finishing the dish in the slow cooker.