Can I use ground beef for slow cooker beef pasta?

Yes, you can use ground beef! Brown it beforehand to drain excess fat. This prevents a greasy texture in your final slow cooker beef pasta dish and enhances the flavor.

What kind of pasta is best for slow cooker beef pasta?

Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini work best. These hold their shape well in the slow cooker and won't become overly mushy.

How long does slow cooker beef pasta take to cook?

Generally, slow cooker beef pasta takes 4-6 hours on low, or 2-3 hours on high. Add the pasta during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft.

Can I freeze slow cooker beef pasta?

Yes, slow cooker beef pasta freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Slow Cooker Beef Pasta: 7 Simple Secrets for Easy Meals

Description

This Slow Cooker Beef Pasta is a delicious, comforting and hearty meal perfect for a busy weeknight. Tender beef simmers in a rich tomato sauce, then is combined with pasta for an easy one-pot meal.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup beef broth
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides.
Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
During the last 30 minutes of cooking time, stir in the uncooked pasta. Make sure the pasta is submerged in the sauce.
Cook until the pasta is tender, about 20-30 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 450
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: slow cooker, beef, pasta, easy dinner, comfort food