There is nothing like coming home to the smell of a warm, savory dinner. On a chilly winter evening, you want something that feels like a hug. This slow cooker beef pasta is the perfect solution for your busy family schedule.
It delivers a hearty, cheesy meal with very little effort from you. You can set it and forget it while you tackle your day. Dinner will be bubbling and ready when you are.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total lifesaver for busy weeknights. It uses simple pantry staples you likely already have. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting for you. You get tender meat and creamy sauce every single time.
It is also very budget-friendly for large families. One pound of beef goes a long way here. Your kids will love the gooey melted cheese in every bite. It is pure comfort food that makes everyone happy.
Simple Method
Making this dish is incredibly easy and approachable. You start by browning the meat to lock in flavor. Then, everything except the pasta goes into the pot. It is a mostly hands-off process that saves you stress.
Even if you are new to cooking, you can do this. The steps are clear and very hard to mess up. Just remember to add the pasta at the end. This ensures your noodles stay perfectly tender and not mushy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are fresh, simple, and easy to find at any shop.
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups beef broth
- 12 oz dry rotini pasta
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Step-by-Step
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion until meat is no longer pink; drain excess fat.
- Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker insert.
- Add minced garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and beef broth; stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours.
- Approximately 30 minutes before serving, stir in the dry pasta.
- Cover and continue cooking on high for 20 to 30 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this slow cooker beef pasta in deep, warm bowls. It pairs beautifully with a side of buttery garlic bread. You can use the bread to soak up the extra sauce. A crisp green salad adds a fresh, bright crunch.
For a cozy night in, light a few candles. This meal feels special but stays totally relaxed. It is also great for casual weekend gatherings with friends. Everyone will be asking you for the recipe!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay delicious for three days. This recipe is fantastic for pre-made lunches. The flavors actually deepen and improve overnight.
To reheat, use the microwave or the stovetop. Add a splash of beef broth or water if needed. This keeps the cheese sauce from getting too thick. Heat it gently until it is steaming and creamy again.
Recipe Tips
- Don’t skip browning the beef for the best flavor.
- Use sharp cheddar for a bolder cheese punch.
- Wait until the very end to add your pasta.
- Check the pasta early to ensure it stays al dente.
- For winter, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Always drain the fat from your beef before slow cooking.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Use gluten-free rotini to keep it allergy-friendly.
- Add a handful of spinach at the end for greens.
- Try pepper jack cheese for a spicy little kick.
Common Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne or shells work very well here. Just ensure they are a similar size to rotini. This helps them cook at the same rate.
Will the pasta get mushy?
Not if you follow the timing in the recipe. Only add it for the last 30 minutes of cooking. This keeps the texture perfect for your family.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can brown the beef and onion the night before. Store them in the fridge until you are ready. This makes your morning prep even faster.
I hope this cozy meal brings your family together tonight. There is nothing better than a warm bowl of pasta on a cold day. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
— Lidia
Slow Cooker Ground Beef and Cheese Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp sal t
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups beef broth
- 12 oz dry rotini pasta
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion until meat is no longer pink; drain excess fat.
- Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker insert.
- Add minced garlic, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and beef broth; stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or low for 6 hours.
- Approximately 30 minutes before serving, stir in the dry pasta.
- Cover and continue cooking on high for 20 to 30 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese until completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Serve immediately.
