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Slow Cooker Crunch Spaghetti

A comforting dish with ground beef, tomatoes, and pasta, slow cooked to perfection for a rich and flavorful meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Ground beef Use lean ground beef or swap with turkey for a lighter option.
  • 1 medium Chopped onion Adds sweetness and aromatic depth.
  • 3 cloves Minced garlic Fresh garlic enhances the flavor significantly.
  • 28 oz Crushed tomatoes Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes.
  • 12 oz Spaghetti Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier option.
Other Ingredients
  • 15 oz Tomato sauce
  • 6 oz Tomato paste
  • 1 cup Red wine Optional.
  • 1 tbsp Sugar
  • 1 tbsp Dried herbs Basil or oregano work well.
  • 1 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1 tsp Salt To taste.
  • 1 tsp Black pepper To taste.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
Slow Cooking
  1. Transfer the beef and onion mixture to your slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, red wine (if using), sugar, dried herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Final Steps
  1. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  2. Add the cooked spaghetti to the slow cooker and gently toss it with the sauce. Allow it to sit for another 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, replace ground beef with lentils or crumbled tempeh. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor.