Crockpot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a cozy meal that cooks itself while you go about your day. Tender meatballs and spaghetti simmer in a flavorful sauce, making it a family favorite!
Cooking in a crockpot means you get tasty food without the fuss. I love coming home to the wonderful smell and digging into a big bowl of this deliciousness. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Standard spaghetti works well here, but you can swap it for other pasta like fettuccine or penne if you prefer. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta would be great for healthier options.
Frozen Meatballs: You can use store-bought frozen meatballs for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade meatballs are a tasty alternative. Just make sure they’re pre-cooked!
Marinara Sauce: A jar of marinara saves time, but feel free to use homemade sauce for a personal touch. Adding diced tomatoes or a splash of red wine can elevate the flavors.
Beef Broth: For a richer taste, beef broth is a nice choice, but vegetable broth works just as well for a lighter flavor, especially if you’re keeping it vegetarian.
How Do You Ensure the Spaghetti Cooks Perfectly in the Crockpot?
The secret to perfectly cooked spaghetti in the crockpot is timing and stirring. When the meatballs are heated through, that’s your cue to add the broken spaghetti. Here’s how to do it:
- Break the spaghetti in half to fit better in the pot.
- Add it about 20-30 minutes before you plan to serve. This gives it enough time to absorb the sauce without getting soggy.
- Stir occasionally to keep spaghetti from clumping and make sure it’s well-coated with sauce.
- Check for doneness; it should be tender yet firm to the bite — al dente!
Following these steps will help you unlock delightful spaghetti and meatballs every time. Enjoy your meal! 🍝
Crockpot Spaghetti And Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
- 1.25 lb (570g) frozen meatballs (pre-cooked)
- 1 jar (24 oz / 680g) marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 2 cups water or beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal requires about 10 minutes for prep and then simmers in the crockpot. Cook it on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. If you add the spaghetti about 30 minutes before serving, you’ll have a cozy dinner ready with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Sauce:
In your crockpot, mix together the marinara sauce, water or broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir until combined. This sauce will be the heart of your dish!
2. Add the Meatballs:
Next, toss in the frozen meatballs. Gently stir them to make sure they’re all coated with the sauce. This will help them warm up and soak in those yummy flavors.
3. Cook It Up:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the meatballs to be heated through, and the sauce should be bubbling. Yum!
4. Add the Spaghetti:
When you’re about 30 minutes from serving, break the spaghetti in half (it fits better this way) and add it to the crockpot. Make sure the noodles are mostly submerged in the sauce. Give them a gentle stir to mix.
5. Finishing Touches:
Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for another 20-30 minutes, or until the spaghetti is tender but still has a bit of a bite to it. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking! Just check that the pasta has soaked up that delicious sauce.
6. Add Cheese and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and mixed well. Now you’re ready to serve!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Dish out your spaghetti and meatballs while it’s hot, and sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top along with fresh parsley, if you like. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal with family and friends!
This recipe provides a comforting, hands-off meal with tender meatballs nestled in spaghetti, all infused with rich marinara sauce. Enjoy your delightful dinner! 🍝
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh meatballs, make sure to cook them until they’re fully browned before adding them to the crockpot. This way, they retain their flavor and texture while cooking with the sauce.
Can I Substitute the Spaghetti with Another Type of Pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta of your choice! Just adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for shorter cooking pasta shapes like penne or fusilli, which may require less time to become tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers of This Dish?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish or warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! Just omit the meatballs and use your favorite plant-based meatball alternative. Ensure that the marinara sauce is also vegetarian-friendly, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal that everyone will enjoy!
