Deliciously Easy: Slow Cooker Spaghetti Recipe
Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen cooking and cleaning up after a meal? Well, we have the perfect solution for you – cooking spaghetti in a slow cooker. This simple yet delicious recipe will not only save you time but also leave your taste buds satisfied.
Using a slow cooker for spaghetti may sound unconventional, but trust us, the end result is perfectly cooked pasta that is tender and full of flavor. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to go about your day while dinner practically cooks itself. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- 1 jar of your favorite marinara sauce
- 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 4 cups of water
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage (if using) over medium heat. Drain any excess fat and set it aside.
- Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the slow cooker. If desired, add the cooked ground beef or sausage on top.
- Break the spaghetti in half and add it to the slow cooker. Next, pour the marinara sauce over the pasta.
- Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to mix the ingredients.
- Pour the water into the slow cooker, making sure it covers the pasta completely.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- Once the cooking time is complete, give the spaghetti a final stir. It should be tender and the sauce should be well-infused.
- Serve the slow cooker spaghetti hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh basil leaves.
With this slow cooker spaghetti recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without the hassle of traditional stovetop cooking. The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and hearty dish that will have your family coming back for seconds. So, why not give it a try? Let the slow cooker do the work while you sit back and relax!
Share your tips and techniques for making spaghetti in a slow cooker in the Cooking Techniques forum section. Join the discussion and let us know how your How To Cook Spaghetti In A Slow Cooker turns out!
FAQ:
Can I cook spaghetti in a slow cooker?
Yes, you absolutely can cook spaghetti in a slow cooker! It’s a convenient and hands-off method that results in flavorful and tender pasta.
Do I need to cook the spaghetti before putting it in the slow cooker?
No, you do not need to cook the spaghetti beforehand. The slow cooker will cook the pasta along with the sauce and other ingredients.
How long does it take to cook spaghetti in a slow cooker?
It typically takes around 4 to 6 hours on low heat setting to cook spaghetti in a slow cooker. However, cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker model and the recipe you are using.
Can I use any type of spaghetti in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can use any type of spaghetti noodles in a slow cooker. Whether it’s regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free spaghetti, they will all cook well in a slow cooker.
Can I add meat or vegetables to the spaghetti while cooking?
Absolutely! Adding meat like ground beef, Italian sausage, or chicken, as well as vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms, can add extra flavor and texture to your spaghetti. Just make sure to brown or cook the meat before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Do I need to stir the spaghetti while it’s cooking?
It’s generally recommended to stir the spaghetti occasionally while it’s cooking in the slow cooker. This helps to evenly distribute the sauce and prevent the noodles from sticking together. However, if you’re short on time, stirring it a couple of times throughout the cooking process should be sufficient.
Can I leave the slow cooker on while I’m away from home?
It is advised to not leave your slow cooker unattended for long periods of time. It’s best to be present while the spaghetti is cooking in the slow cooker, especially if you’re adding meat or using a new recipe for the first time. However, if you must leave, ensure the slow cooker is set to the appropriate heat setting and cooking time recommended in the recipe, and follow all safety precautions outlined in your slow cooker’s instructions.
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