Crockpot Spaghetti: A Creamy, Family-Friendly Delight

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This crockpot spaghetti is a creamy, savory meal that everyone will love. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures that come together effortlessly in your slow cooker!

Table of Contents

Delicious crockpot spaghetti with creamy sauce and Parmesan cheese

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Spaghetti

A Deliciously Creamy and Flavorful Meal

This crockpot spaghetti offers a delightful combination of flavors. The creamy sauce melds perfectly with tender noodles, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a comforting meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights and Gatherings

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, crockpot spaghetti is a fantastic choice. It’s meal prep-friendly and allows you to spend less time in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a kid-approved favorite that guarantees smiles all around!

Ingredients for Crockpot Spaghetti

Essential Ingredients

1 pound Italian sausage (or ground beef, turkey, or frozen meatballs)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground pepper
½ teaspoon garlic salt
3 jars (24 ounces each) pasta sauce
1 pound spaghetti noodles (regular; adjust cooking time for angel hair)
½ cup grated or powdered Parmesan cheese
4 ounces fat-free cream cheese
14.5 ounces low sodium chicken broth (or water)

Possible Substitutions

If you prefer, swap the Italian sausage for ground beef, turkey, or even chicken. Frozen meatballs also work well, making this dish versatile and easy to customize. For a lighter option, you can replace some of the chicken broth with water.

How to Make Crockpot Spaghetti

Preparing the Sausage

Start by browning the Italian sausage in a medium skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and garlic salt for extra flavor. Drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside, allowing it to cool slightly.

Layering the Ingredients

Pour one jar of pasta sauce into the bottom of your crockpot. Break the spaghetti noodles in half and layer them on top of the sauce. Next, add the browned sausage over the noodles and sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese. Cut the cream cheese into small chunks and place them on top of the cheese. Pour another jar of pasta sauce over the cream cheese to lock in the flavors.

Cooking Instructions

Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. After 3 hours, give the mixture a good stir and add the last jar of pasta sauce along with the chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for an additional hour until the noodles are fully cooked and tender.

Pro Tips for the Best Crockpot Spaghetti

Monitoring Cooking Times

Slow cookers can vary significantly, so monitor your cooking time. Stir regularly to prevent overcooking the pasta; you want it to be perfectly al dente.

Enhancing Flavor with Cheese

For an extra creamy sauce, don’t skip the cream cheese. It elevates the dish and adds a delightful richness that everyone will appreciate!

Preventing Overcooked Pasta

To avoid mushy pasta, be cautious about your cooking times. Stirring often helps, and adding the final jar of sauce and broth towards the end ensures the noodles cook through without becoming overly soft.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the spaghetti in an airtight container or freezer bag for 2-3 months.

Reheating Methods

When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, you can reheat them in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. Just add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!

What to Serve with Crockpot Spaghetti

Side Dish Suggestions

This rich dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or garlic bread. A side of roasted vegetables also complements the flavors beautifully.

Beverage Pairings

For a refreshing drink, serve a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon. These options enhance the dish without overwhelming its rich, savory flavors.

FAQs

How do I make spaghetti in a crockpot?

To make spaghetti in a crockpot, layer browned sausage, broken spaghetti, and sauce in the crockpot. Cook on high for 3 hours, then add more sauce and broth, and continue cooking on low for 1 hour.

What ingredients do I need for crockpot spaghetti?

You need Italian sausage, pasta sauce, spaghetti noodles, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and chicken broth to make crockpot spaghetti.

Can I use frozen meat for crockpot spaghetti?

Yes, you can use frozen meatballs or other frozen ground meats in this recipe.

How long should I cook spaghetti in a crockpot?

Cook spaghetti in a crockpot on high for 3 hours, then on low for an additional hour.

What are some tips for making spaghetti sauce in a crockpot?

Use cream cheese for a creamy sauce, monitor cooking times closely, and stir regularly to prevent overcooking the pasta.

Conclusion

This crockpot spaghetti is not only easy to make, but it also brings comfort and joy to the table. For more delightful ideas, check out our Pinterest page for inspiration and tips. Happy cooking!