Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti

Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Set It & Forget It : The slow cooker does all the work—no babysitting required.
  2. Rich & Hearty Flavor : A savory meat sauce and gooey cheese make every bite irresistible.
  3. One-Pot Wonder : Minimal cleanup makes this recipe a lifesaver on busy days.
  4. Customizable : Add veggies, spices, or extra toppings to suit your taste.
  5. Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will love this cheesy, comforting dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Serves 6–8

  • 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
  • 1 medium onion , diced
  • 3 cloves garlic , minced
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade if you have it!)
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 4 cups cooked spaghetti (about 8 oz uncooked)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese , divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese , plus extra for topping
  • Optional Garnish : Fresh parsley, crushed red pepper, or extra Parmesan

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Meat

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or sausage) until browned. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

  1. Transfer the cooked meat mixture to the slow cooker.
  2. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine.

Step 3: Cook

  1. Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours , until the sauce is bubbly and flavorful.

Step 4: Add the Spaghetti and Cheese

  1. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cooked spaghetti and 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese.
  2. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover and cook for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, crushed red pepper, or extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Slow-Cooked Sauce : The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a rich, hearty sauce.
  • Cheese Magic : Mozzarella and Parmesan add creaminess and indulgence, tying the dish together.
  • Convenient Prep : Pre-cooked spaghetti ensures the pasta doesn’t get mushy during cooking.

Variations to Try

  • Add Veggies : Stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Spice It Up : Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure your marinara sauce is GF-friendly.
  • Vegetarian Version : Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or lentils.
  • Extra Cheesy : Stir in ricotta or cream cheese for an even creamier texture.

Tips for Success

  • Cook Pasta Al Dente : Undercook the spaghetti slightly before adding it to the slow cooker—it will finish cooking in the sauce.
  • Don’t Overmix : Stir gently when adding the spaghetti and cheese to prevent breaking the noodles.
  • Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

  • Romantic Touch : Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil for elegance.
  • Brunch Staple : Serve alongside garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a light breakfast treat.
  • Party Platter : Pair with roasted vegetables, dinner rolls, or a charcuterie board for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, cheesy, and hearty meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With its tender spaghetti, savory meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, meal prepping, or simply craving something cozy, this dish is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction.

Your turn! Have you ever made spaghetti in a slow cooker before? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below. 🍝