This Slow Cooker Pasta Casserole is a warm and cheesy delight! It’s super easy because everything cooks together in one pot, making clean-up a breeze.
You can toss in your favorite pasta and any veggies you have on hand, so it’s flexible. I love serving it with a side salad—perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. You could swap it for ground turkey for a leaner option or even use cooked sausage for extra flavor. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute!
Bell Pepper: I like green bell peppers for their slight bitterness that complements the bit of sweetness from the sauce. You can use any color of bell pepper or even mushrooms if you don’t have any on hand.
Pasta: Rigatoni and rotini work beautifully in this casserole, as they hold sauce well. You could also use shell pasta or penne—just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may cook faster!
Mozzarella Cheese: It brings that stretchy goodness on top. For a twist, consider using cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses. Vegan cheese works too for a dairy-free version!
How Do I Ensure the Pasta is Perfectly Cooked in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking pasta in a slow cooker can be tricky, but with these steps, you’ll nail it every time!
- Cook on LOW heat and keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain heat. This is key!
- Start checking for doneness around the 2.5-hour mark. Pasta can become mushy quickly in a slow cooker.
- If you find it’s getting close to being done, you can always turn off the slow cooker and let the residual heat finish the cooking.
Taking these steps will help you achieve perfectly tender pasta without overcooking it!
Slow Cooker Pasta Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 3 cups uncooked pasta (such as rigatoni or rotini)
- 2 1/2 cups water or beef broth
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prep this delicious meal and then 2.5 to 3 hours for it to cook in the slow cooker. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat and Vegetables:
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender, which usually takes around 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat so the casserole doesn’t get greasy!
2. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Now it’s time to transfer the delicious beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add the jar of marinara sauce, uncooked pasta, and your choice of water or beef broth. Then, sprinkle in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to mix all the flavors together!
3. Cook it Low and Slow:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 2.5 to 3 hours. It’s important to avoid opening the lid too often during this time to keep the heat inside. Trust me, it’ll be worth the wait!
4. Melt the Cheese:
Once the pasta is tender, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will help the cheese melt into a gooey, delicious topping.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, scoop the pasta casserole right from the slow cooker onto your plates. It’s best enjoyed hot and fresh, so dig in and savor this comforting meal with family or friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rigatoni and rotini are great choices, you can use any short pasta shape you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta types may require slight adjustments.
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey or chicken work well and are leaner options. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute to keep it hearty!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just microwave individual portions or warm them gently on the stove. If it seems dry, add a splash of water or broth while reheating.
Can I Prep This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and combine all ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before. Just refrigerate it overnight, and then in the morning, set it to cook on low for 2.5 to 3 hours. This makes for an easy dinner after a busy day!
