Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a hearty spaghetti sauce bubbling away in the slow cooker.
I love how it fills my home with an irresistible aroma, making my mouth water as it simmers all day. The best part? I can set it and forget it.
With minimal prep, I can go about my day while knowing a delicious meal is on the way. The flavors meld beautifully over time, creating a rich sauce that’s perfect over pasta or even as a dip for bread.
Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—great for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
I’m always excited to share this recipe because it’s a warm hug in a bowl, and who doesn’t love that?
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce
When it comes to whipping up a delicious slow cooker spaghetti sauce, the ingredient list is simple yet oh-so-satisfying. You’ll want to gather some hearty essentials that will blend together beautifully as they cook low and slow. Trust me, the aroma alone will have your family enthusiastically anticipating dinner!
So, let’s break it down, shall we?
Ingredients:
- 1 – 2 lb ground beef or 1 – 2 lb Italian sausage
- 1/2 lb fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 2 (29 ounce) cans of tomato sauce
- 1 (6 ounce) can of tomato paste
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients for a moment. You might be wondering if you can swap out any of them—like using turkey instead of beef or leaving out the mushrooms if they’re not your thing.
And yes, you totally can! This sauce is pretty forgiving; it loves making friends with whatever you have on hand. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some bell peppers or even a splash of red wine for that extra depth of flavor.
Just remember, the key is balancing the acidity of the tomatoes with the sweetness of the brown sugar. So, if you go rogue with the ingredients, taste as you go to make sure the flavors are just right.
Happy cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce
Making your own Slow Cooker Mushroom and Beef Spaghetti Sauce isn’t only straightforward but also incredibly rewarding. First things first, grab 1 to 2 pounds of ground beef or Italian sausage—whichever you prefer, and let’s be real, both are delicious. Brown that meat in a skillet over medium heat until it’s nice and crumbly. You want to make sure to drain off any excess fat; nobody likes a greasy sauce.
Once that’s done, toss that browned meat into your slow cooker, and let’s keep the momentum going.
Next, it’s time to bring the flavor train to the station. You’ll be adding 1/2 pound of fresh mushrooms, sliced up just the way you like them—thick or thin, you do you. Then, it’s showtime for the star of the show: the tomatoes! Pour in two 29-ounce cans of tomato sauce and a 6-ounce can of tomato paste. It’s like a tomato party in there.
Now, grab 6 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of dried basil, 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, and if you’re feeling spicy, toss in 1 tablespoon of crushed red pepper flakes. To balance all that acidity, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir it all together like you’re mixing a pot of happiness.
Now, cover your slow cooker and set it to low for anywhere between 6 to 10 hours. It’s a long wait, but trust me, the house will smell like a cozy Italian bistro, and your patience will be rewarded.
If you’re anything like me, you might find yourself sneakily sampling the sauce a couple of times before dinner. Just be careful; it’s hot—don’t burn your tongue like I did that one time.
When the time’s up, serve it over your favorite pasta, and get ready for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug. Enjoy every bite, and remember, cooking should be fun, not stressful. So, embrace those messy moments and dig in!
Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Slow Cooker Mushroom and Beef Spaghetti Sauce, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For instance, you can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want to kick up the flavor, try adding some chopped bell peppers or carrots.
Instead of fresh mushrooms, canned mushrooms work just fine, or you could use a mix of wild mushrooms for a gourmet twist.
For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with lentils or crumbled tempeh.
Don’t forget about using different herbs—thyme or rosemary can add a delightful touch.
Experimenting is half the fun, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce
While you may be tempted to simply serve your Slow Cooker Mushroom and Beef Spaghetti Sauce over pasta, there are plenty of delicious options to elevate your meal.
For a lighter touch, try pairing it with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Both add a fresh twist and complement the sauce beautifully.
If you want something heartier, consider serving it with garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for dipping.
A side salad, tossed with a tangy vinaigrette, can balance the richness of the sauce perfectly.
And for those cozy nights, I often enjoy it over polenta, creating a creamy base that soaks up the flavors.
Each option brings a unique flair to your dinner table!
Additional Tips & Notes
To enhance your Slow Cooker Mushroom and Beef Spaghetti Sauce, consider letting the flavors meld overnight in the fridge before serving. This way, the sauce will develop a richer taste that’s simply irresistible.
If you’re short on time, don’t worry; it still tastes great right after cooking! To tweak the heat level, adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your preference.
I love adding a splash of red wine for depth, so feel free to try that if you enjoy wine.
Finally, you can easily double the recipe for meal prep or to feed a crowd. Just remember to store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days.
Enjoy your delicious creation!