Easy and Delicious Crockpot Pasta Recipes
Pasta dishes are a family favorite, but who has time to stand over a hot stove stirring a pot of pasta? Not me! That’s why I love making pasta in my slow cooker. It's a simple way to create comforting, flavorful meals with minimal effort. These crockpot pasta recipes are perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
Why Choose Crockpot Pasta?
There are several advantages to using your slow cooker for pasta:
- Hands-off cooking: Throw everything in the crockpot in the morning and come home to a delicious dinner!
- Flavor Infusion: Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a richer, more complex taste.
- Less Mess: One pot means less cleanup – a huge win in my book!
- Perfect for Meal Prepping: Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
Top 3 Crockpot Pasta Recipes:
1. Creamy Tomato and Spinach Crockpot Pasta
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining the tangy sweetness of tomatoes with the earthy goodness of spinach.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel)
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until pasta is cooked through.
- Stir well and serve with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
2. Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Crockpot Pasta
A comforting and satisfying dish perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (elbow macaroni, shells, or your favorite shape)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 (16 ounce) package frozen broccoli florets
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients except cheese in your slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until pasta is cooked through.
- Stir in cheese until melted.
- Serve immediately.
3. Spicy Sausage and Pepper Crockpot Pasta
This recipe adds a kick of flavor with Italian sausage and bell peppers.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (fusilli, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Combine all ingredients in your slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until pasta is cooked through.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for Crockpot Pasta Success:
- Use the right pasta: Choose pasta shapes that hold their shape well during slow cooking, such as penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni. Avoid delicate pasta like angel hair.
- Don't overcook: Start checking for doneness about an hour before the minimum cooking time is up.
- Add liquid strategically: Add enough liquid to prevent the pasta from sticking or drying out. You might need to adjust the liquid amount based on your slow cooker and the type of pasta you're using.
- Get creative with toppings: Garnish your pasta with fresh herbs, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream or pesto for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and creating your own delicious crockpot pasta creations! Remember to adjust seasoning to your preference. Happy cooking!
