Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Sausage and Spaghetti Dinner Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that practically cooks itself, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Sausage and Spaghetti Dinner.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. I can toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning and forget about it until dinner time. The aroma fills my home, making it feel warm and inviting.
Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup afterward—always a win in my book! I appreciate that I can customize it, adding more vegetables or spices based on my mood.
When it’s finally time to eat, I can serve it straight from the cooker, and everyone loves it. Trust me, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Sausage and Spaghetti Dinner
When it comes to making a delicious Slow Cooker Sausage and Spaghetti Dinner, it all starts with gathering the right ingredients. This dish isn’t only hearty and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly easy to put together.
Imagine this: you wake up in the morning, gather the ingredients, and toss them into your slow cooker. By dinner time, your home is filled with an irresistible aroma, and you haven’t spent the entire day in the kitchen. Sounds pretty ideal, right? Let’s explore what you’ll need to make this comforting meal come to life.
Here’s a handy list of ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 lb sweet Italian sausage or 1 lb hot Italian sausage
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can Italian-style crushed tomatoes (crushed tomatoes with basil)
- 1/3 cup red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste, whisked into 1/2 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Sea salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Parmesan cheese, grated
Now, let’s talk about a few considerations when it comes to these ingredients. First off, the sausage choice can really change the vibe of your dish. Going with sweet Italian sausage gives a mild, comforting flavor, while hot sausage can add a delightful kick that spices things up—perfect for those who like a little heat.
And don’t forget the red wine; it adds depth to the sauce, but if wine isn’t your thing, a bit of extra broth or water can work just fine. Feel free to throw in some extra veggies if you’ve got them—bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can make this dish even more colorful and nutritious.
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s flexible, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!
How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Spaghetti Dinner
Making a Slow Cooker Sausage and Spaghetti Dinner is a breeze, and trust me, if I can do it, so can you. Let’s get started.
Start by grabbing 1 lb of your sausage of choice—sweet or hot—and toss it into your slow cooker. It’s like a little flavor party waiting to happen.
Next, add 1 cup of diced yellow onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Just picture the aroma of those ingredients mingling together. You’ll be tempted to take a little taste, but hold your horses; the magic is just beginning.
Now, pour in a 28-ounce can of Italian-style crushed tomatoes. This is where things start to get saucy. Follow that up with 1/3 cup of red wine. If you’re wondering whether you should take a sip while you cook, I won’t judge.
Then, mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste that you’ve whisked into 1/2 cup of warm water—this will help thicken everything up nicely. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme and oregano, toss in 1 bay leaf, and season with sea salt and ground black pepper to taste.
Give everything a good stir, cover your slow cooker, and let it work its magic on low for about 7 to 8 hours. Don’t forget to check in on it now and then; if it starts looking a tad thick, add a splash more water.
As dinner time approaches, boil a large pot of salted water and cook 1 lb of spaghetti according to the package instructions.
While that’s bubbling away, take a moment to skim off any oil that may have floated to the top of your delicious sauce. This is the part where you get to remove the sausage pieces, slice them into thirds, and set them aside.
Once your pasta is perfectly al dente, it’s time to ladle that mouthwatering sauce over the spaghetti in a big bowl. Arrange your sausage pieces on top like a crown on a king—because, let’s face it, this dinner deserves a royal treatment.
Finally, don’t forget the grated Parmesan cheese; it’s like the confetti on this pasta party. Grab a salad and some garlic bread, and you’re ready to feast. Can you smell it already? I can, and it’s heavenly.
Slow Cooker Sausage and Spaghetti Dinner Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic combination of sausage and spaghetti, there are plenty of ways to mix things up and make this dish your own.
For a healthier twist, try swapping the sausage for turkey or chicken sausage. If you’re feeling adventurous, add in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
You can also experiment with different types of pasta, like whole grain or gluten-free options. If you prefer a creamy sauce, stir in some cream cheese or ricotta before serving.
For spice lovers, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the heat. Don’t forget to adjust the herbs and spices to your taste; fresh basil or parsley can really brighten up the dish.
Enjoy your culinary creativity!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Sausage and Spaghetti Dinner
To complement the rich flavors of slow cooker sausage and spaghetti, I recommend serving it with a few simple sides that enhance the meal without overshadowing it.
A fresh green salad is an excellent choice; it adds a crisp, invigorating contrast to the hearty pasta. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette for a burst of flavor.
Additionally, garlic bread is a must-have; its buttery, garlicky goodness pairs perfectly with the savory sauce.
You might also consider offering some steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, to add color and nutrition to your plate.
Finally, don’t forget to have grated Parmesan cheese on the table for that final touch of deliciousness!
Additional Tips & Notes
As you prepare your slow cooker sausage and spaghetti, keep a few helpful tips in mind to guarantee the dish turns out perfectly.
First, don’t skip browning the sausage before adding it to the slow cooker; it deepens the flavor. If you’re short on time, feel free to use pre-diced onions and minced garlic.
When adding the spaghetti, make sure to stir it into the sauce for even coverage. If the sauce thickens too much, a splash of water or more red wine can help.
Finally, remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. I love serving this dish with freshly grated Parmesan and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!