Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
When you try this slow cooker spaghetti sauce recipe, you’ll quickly see why it’s become a favorite in my kitchen.
The rich, savory aroma fills my home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. It’s incredibly easy—just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the magic.
I love that I can prepare it in the morning and return to a delicious meal after a long day. Plus, it’s versatile; you can customize it to fit your taste.
Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this sauce always impresses. You’ll absolutely love it!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce
When it comes to whipping up a comforting bowl of spaghetti, the ingredients can really make or break the dish. For this slow cooker spaghetti sauce, you’ll want to gather a few hearty staples that will meld beautifully over time, creating a rich and flavorful sauce.
The best part? Most of these ingredients are probably already lurking in your pantry or fridge, waiting for their moment to shine. Let’s explore what you’ll need to create this delicious sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 lb ground beef or 1-2 lb Italian sausage
- 1/2 lb fresh mushrooms
- 2 (29 ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 6 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons basil
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Now, before you dash off to the store, let’s chat about a few things.
First off, the type of meat you choose can really change the flavor profile. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage for a heartier taste.
And don’t skip on the mushrooms; they add a lovely earthiness that elevates the sauce. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you might want to dial down the crushed red pepper flakes or leave them out altogether.
How to Make Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to immerse yourself in the fun part—making the slow cooker spaghetti sauce. First things first, you’ll want to grab that 1-2 lb of ground beef or Italian sausage.
Heat up a skillet over medium heat, toss in the meat, and cook it until it’s browned. This might take about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t forget to break it up with a spatula as it cooks; you want nice, crumbly bits, not one big meatball. Once the meat is cooked through, be sure to drain any excess grease; nobody likes a greasy sauce, right?
Now, in a large slow cooker, combine your browned meat with 1/2 lb of fresh mushrooms, 2 (29 ounce) cans of tomato sauce, and 1 (6 ounce) can of tomato paste.
Next, throw in 6 garlic cloves (minced, if you’re feeling fancy), 2 tablespoons of basil, 1 tablespoon of oregano, 1 tablespoon of crushed red pepper flakes, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Yep, that’s right—brown sugar! It’s like the secret handshake of ingredients that helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Give everything a good stir to mix it all up.
Now, here’s where the magic happens. Cover your slow cooker, set it to low, and let it work its wonders for about 6 to 10 hours. Yes, that’s a wide range, but it all depends on how much time you have.
If you can’t wait that long, I totally understand. Just know that the longer it simmers, the richer the flavors become. So maybe take a leisurely stroll, read a book, or find a Netflix series to binge.
When you finally return, your kitchen will smell like an Italian grandmother’s kitchen, and you’ll be ready to serve up a big bowl of spaghetti that’s sure to impress. Just don’t forget the garlic bread—because let’s be real, what’s spaghetti without it?
Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the basic slow cooker spaghetti sauce, you might be curious about how to mix things up.
I love experimenting with different proteins, like ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian twist. You can swap in zucchini or bell peppers for a veggie boost, too.
For a richer flavor, try adding red wine or balsamic vinegar. If you’re a heat lover, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or toss in some jalapeños.
Finally, don’t hesitate to play with herbs—fresh parsley or thyme can elevate the dish.
Enjoy finding your favorite variations!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce
Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, serving the perfect side dishes with your slow cooker spaghetti sauce can elevate the meal.
I love to pair it with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread is a must for soaking up that delicious sauce, and it’s always a hit.
For something heartier, you can’t go wrong with a classic Caprese salad.
Finally, consider offering a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful, nutritious touch.
These simple additions make my spaghetti nights truly memorable, and I’m sure they’ll do the same for you!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your slow cooker spaghetti sauce, there are a few tips that can enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
First, consider adding a splash of red wine for depth; it really elevates the sauce. If you like a bit of sweetness, a touch more brown sugar can balance the acidity from the tomatoes.
Don’t forget to sauté the garlic and mushrooms before adding them; this step brings out their rich flavors.
Finally, let the sauce sit for a bit after cooking to allow the flavors to meld. Trust me, these small tweaks make a big difference!