This cozy Crockpot Spaghetti Meat Sauce is a great way to enjoy a hearty meal with very little effort. Just toss in ground beef, tomatoes, and spices, and let the slow cooker do the work!
It’s perfect for busy days when you want something delicious waiting for you at dinner time. I love serving it over spaghetti with a sprinkle of cheese on top. So yummy! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the sauce, providing protein and richness. You can substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option or to accommodate dietary preferences.
Onion and Garlic: These add essential flavor. If you’re in a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder can be good stand-ins, though I recommend using fresh when possible for the best taste.
Canned Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes are great for a thick sauce. If you can’t find them, whole or diced tomatoes can work too—just crush them a bit before adding to the crockpot.
Beef Broth: This adds depth. You can replace it with vegetable broth or water if you’re looking for a lighter version or want to keep it vegetarian.
Herbs: Oregano and basil are classic choices. If you’re out, Italian seasoning is a lovely alternative. Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor if you have them on hand!
How Do I Ensure My Meat Sauce is Flavorful?
Building flavor is key in any sauce! Start by properly browning the ground beef, which creates a nice base. Add the onions and garlic to the beef for additional flavor—cook until they’re soft.
- Make sure to drain the fat from the beef to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Add the seasoning early in the cooking process for the best flavor infusion.
- Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed.
Let the sauce simmer low and slow in the crockpot, which allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen!
Crockpot Spaghetti Meat Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary (plus extra sprig for garnish)
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Spaghetti:
- 12 oz spaghetti pasta
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Crockpot Spaghetti Meat Sauce takes about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll let it cook in the crockpot for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. You’ll need an additional 15 minutes to cook the spaghetti. So, in total, plan around 8 hours if you’re cooking on low.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned. Use a spatula to break it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
2. Combine in the Crockpot:
Transfer the cooked beef to your crockpot. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
3. Season the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, dried rosemary, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is combined well.
4. Cook the Sauce:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if you can, but it’s not necessary.
5. Prepare the Spaghetti:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander.
6. Serve It Up:
To serve, place a generous amount of spaghetti on each plate and top it with the rich meat sauce. If you like, add a sprig of rosemary for garnish and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.
Enjoy your warm and comforting Crockpot Spaghetti Meat Sauce! Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week! 🍝
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you may want to add a little extra seasoning for flavor since turkey is milder than beef.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a flavorful mix. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for the liquid base.
Can I Freeze Leftover Meat Sauce?
Yes, you can freeze any leftover meat sauce! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
How to Adjust for Spiciness?
If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce before cooking. If you prefer a milder flavor, leave out these ingredients and adjust seasoning to your taste towards the end of cooking.