Name: Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 4 h 20 min
Total time: 4 h 40 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef; ½ lb Italian sausage; 1 Large Onion; 4 cloves garlic; 28 oz tomatoes; 24 oz tomato sauce; 14 oz tomatoes; 6 oz tomato paste; 1 small green bell pepper; ½ cup water; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1½ tbsp Italian Seasoning; 1 tsp sugar; ½ tsp seasoned salt; 2 tbsp each fresh parsley and basil

Creating a rich and flavorful spaghetti sauce in a crockpot is an easy way to enjoy hearty Italian cuisine at home. This recipe combines ground beef, Italian sausage, and a medley of tomatoes with herbs and spices for a delicious, slow-cooked meal.

Photos of Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in your pantry, such as Italian sausage, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh herbs like parsley and basil. Make sure to check the condiments and fresh produce sections of your supermarket to find these items.

Ingredients For Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

Ground beef: Ground beef adds a hearty, meaty base to the sauce.

Italian sausage: This adds extra flavor and spice to the sauce.

Onion: Provides a sweet and savory depth to the sauce.

Garlic: Infuses the sauce with rich, aromatic flavors.

Tomatoes: Adds fresh, tangy tomato flavor to the sauce.

Tomato sauce: Gives the sauce a smooth, rich texture.

Tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.

Green bell pepper: Adds a slight crunch and sweetness.

Water: Helps to thin the sauce for a perfect consistency.

Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory, umami flavors.

Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds classic Italian flavor.

Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Seasoned salt: Adds an extra layer of seasoning to the sauce.

Parsley: Fresh herb that adds a bright, fresh flavor.

Basil: Another fresh herb that adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.

One reader, Gaynor Childress says:

This crockpot spaghetti sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors meld beautifully over hours, creating a rich, hearty sauce. The addition of fresh herbs at the end is perfect. My family loved it, and it's now a staple in our home. Easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Gaynor Childress

Techniques Required for Making Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce

How to brown ground beef and sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, sausage, chopped onions, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.

How to chop an onion: Cut off the top and bottom of the onion. Slice it in half from top to bottom. Peel off the outer skin. Lay each half flat and make horizontal cuts, then vertical cuts to dice.

How to mince garlic: Peel the garlic cloves. Use a knife to finely chop the garlic until it reaches a minced consistency.

How to chop a green bell pepper: Cut off the top and bottom of the bell pepper. Remove the seeds and inner membranes. Slice the pepper into strips, then chop into small pieces.

How to cook pasta al dente: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually 8-10 minutes, until it is tender but still firm to the bite. Drain well.

How To Make Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce

Make a rich, creamy, and tasty spaghetti sauce by using a crockpot. This will help tenderize the ingredients while helping in flavor absorption.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 4 hours 20 minutes

Total: 4 hours 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbground beef
½lbItalian sausage,or use all ground beef
1large onion,diced
4clovesgarlic,minced
28oztomatoes,canned, diced do not drain
24oztomato sauce
14oztomatoes,crushed
6oztomato paste
1small green bell pepper,diced
½cupwater
2tbspWorcestershire sauce
1½tbspItalian seasoning
1tspsugar
½tspseasoned salt,or to taste
2tbspeach fresh parsley and basil,plus extra for garnish if desired

Instructions

Brown ground beef, sausage, onions, and garlic until no pink remains. Drain any fat.
Add beef mixture and remaining ingredients except for the fresh herbs and pasta to the crockpot.
Cook on High for 4 hours or Low for 6 to 8 hours. Stir in fresh herbs just before serving.
Prepare spaghetti or pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain well.
Top spaghetti with meat sauce. Garnish with additional herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 325.57kcal
Fat: 20.97g
Saturated Fat: 7.62g
Trans Fat: 0.67g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.19g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.72g
Carbohydrates: 18.94g
Fiber: 4.67g
Sugar: 11.53g
Protein: 17.50g
Cholesterol: 61.80mg
Sodium: 910.19mg
Calcium: 74.78mg
Potassium: 1140.68mg
Iron: 4.31mg
Vitamin A: 108.24µg
Vitamin C: 43.05mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce

To enhance the flavor of your crockpot spaghetti sauce, consider deglazing the pan after browning the ground beef and italian sausage. Once the meat is browned and removed, pour a small amount of water or wine into the hot pan, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom. This adds a rich, deep flavor to your sauce.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce

Use pre-chopped vegetables: Save time by using pre-chopped onions and bell peppers from the store.

Pre-brown meat: Brown the ground beef and sausage the night before and store in the fridge.

Opt for canned garlic: Use pre-minced garlic to cut down on prep time.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Use a food processor: Quickly chop onions and bell peppers using a food processor.

Instant pot option: Use an Instant Pot to reduce cooking time significantly.

Substitute Ingredients For Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.
italian sausage - Substitute with ground pork: Ground pork can mimic the richness of Italian sausage, and you can add fennel seeds and red pepper flakes to replicate the sausage's flavor.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, which can complement the sauce well.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic, though you may need to adjust the quantity to taste.
tomatoes - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes provide a similar consistency and can be used interchangeably in sauces.
tomato sauce - Substitute with passata: Passata is a pureed tomato product that offers a smooth texture similar to tomato sauce.
tomatoes - Substitute with diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes can add a chunkier texture and are a good alternative to whole or crushed tomatoes.
tomato paste - Substitute with sun-dried tomato paste: Sun-dried tomato paste has a concentrated flavor that can add depth to the sauce.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers are sweeter and can add a different but pleasant flavor to the sauce.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds more flavor compared to plain water.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can provide a similar umami flavor, though it is saltier, so adjust the salt content accordingly.
italian seasoning - Substitute with herbes de Provence: Herbes de Provence includes many of the same herbs found in Italian seasoning and can be used as a flavorful alternative.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and a slight floral note to the sauce.
seasoned salt - Substitute with regular salt: Regular salt can be used, and you can add your own blend of spices to mimic seasoned salt.
fresh parsley - Substitute with dried parsley: Dried parsley can be used, though it is less vibrant in flavor, so you may need to use a bit more.
fresh basil - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used as a substitute, but it is more concentrated, so use less than you would fresh.

Presenting Your Delicious Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the spaghetti in a neat, compact nest on the plate, ensuring each portion is manageable and visually appealing.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with a sprig of fresh basil and a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley to add a touch of color and freshness.
Layer flavors: Place a generous ladle of the rich meat sauce over the spaghetti, allowing the sauce to cascade naturally, showcasing the hearty ingredients.
Add texture: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top, adding a layer of texture and a burst of umami flavor.
Highlight ingredients: Arrange thin slices of green bell pepper and a few whole cherry tomatoes around the plate to highlight the fresh ingredients used in the sauce.
Use high-quality tableware: Serve the dish on a pristine white plate to make the vibrant colors of the spaghetti and sauce pop, enhancing the overall presentation.
Create height: Elevate the presentation by stacking a few meatballs on top of the spaghetti, adding height and visual interest to the dish.
Drizzle with sauce: Finish with a light drizzle of extra tomato sauce around the edge of the plate, creating a frame that draws the eye to the center of the dish.
Add a touch of luxury: Place a small piece of crusty garlic bread on the side, offering a complementary texture and flavor that enhances the dining experience.
Ensure balance: Make sure each plate has a balanced amount of spaghetti, meat sauce, and garnishes, ensuring a harmonious and satisfying dish for each guest.

Essential Tools for Making Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce

Skillet: Use this to brown the ground beef, sausage, onions, and garlic until no pink remains.
Wooden spoon: Helpful for stirring the meat mixture while browning and for mixing the sauce in the crockpot.
Knife: Essential for chopping the onion, garlic, and green bell pepper.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the vegetables.
Crockpot: The main cooking vessel where the sauce will simmer and develop its flavors over several hours.
Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring out the tomato sauce, water, and other liquid ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Useful for accurately measuring the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, sugar, and seasoned salt.
Can opener: Needed to open the cans of tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
Colander: Used to drain the cooked pasta before serving.
Large pot: Required for boiling the spaghetti or pasta.
Tongs: Handy for handling the pasta when transferring it from the pot to the serving plates.
Serving spoon: Ideal for ladling the sauce over the pasta.
Herb scissors: Convenient for chopping the fresh parsley and basil just before adding them to the sauce.

Storing and Freezing Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce

Allow the spaghetti sauce to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled sauce to an airtight container or jar. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To freeze the sauce:
- Divide the cooled sauce into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and amount of sauce.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for easier storage.
- The frozen spaghetti sauce will maintain its best quality for up to 4 months.
To thaw frozen spaghetti sauce, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting.
Reheat the thawed sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. You may need to add a little water or broth to thin out the sauce if it has thickened during storage.
Do not refreeze previously frozen spaghetti sauce, as this can affect its texture and quality.

How To Reheat Leftover Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce

Reheat the spaghetti sauce in a saucepan on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure even reheating without scorching the sauce.
If you're short on time, you can reheat the sauce in the microwave. Transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the sauce is heated through.
For a quick and easy meal, reheat the sauce directly in the crockpot. Set the crockpot to low heat and let the sauce warm up for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is perfect if you have a large quantity of sauce to reheat or if you want to keep the sauce warm for an extended period.
If you have leftover spaghetti along with the sauce, you can reheat them together in the oven. Place the spaghetti and sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to allow the top to slightly brown and crisp up.
For a delicious twist, transform your leftover spaghetti sauce into a baked pasta dish. Cook some fresh pasta al dente, mix it with the reheated sauce, and transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Interesting Fact About Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce

A fun fact about this crockpot spaghetti sauce recipe is that slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing the taste of the sauce. The Italian sausage adds a rich, savory depth that complements the ground beef, making this dish a hearty and satisfying meal.

Is Making Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Cost-Effective?

This crockpot spaghetti sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using affordable ingredients like ground beef, Italian sausage, and canned tomatoes, it provides a hearty meal without breaking the bank. The slow-cooking method enhances flavors, making it a delicious option. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost: $15-$20 for a household of 4 people.

Is Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Healthy or Unhealthy?

The crockpot spaghetti sauce recipe, while flavorful, leans towards being unhealthy due to several factors:

High saturated fat content from the ground beef and Italian sausage
Excessive sodium from the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and seasoned salt
Added sugar, which contributes to empty calories

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as onions, garlic, bell peppers, and fresh herbs, which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Opt for lean ground beef (90% or higher) and turkey or chicken sausage to reduce saturated fat
Use low-sodium tomato sauce and paste, and omit the seasoned salt to control sodium intake
Replace the added sugar with a natural sweetener like grated carrots, which will add sweetness and boost the vegetable content
Increase the amount of onions, garlic, bell peppers, and fresh herbs to enhance the nutritional value and flavor
Add more vegetables, such as grated zucchini or chopped mushrooms, to increase fiber and nutrients
Serve the sauce over whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles for a more nutrient-dense and lower-calorie option

By implementing these changes, you can transform this spaghetti sauce into a healthier, more balanced meal that still satisfies your taste buds and provides comfort on a cozy night in.

Editor's Opinion on This Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

This crockpot spaghetti sauce recipe is a hearty and flavorful option for a comforting meal. The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage adds depth, while the blend of tomatoes, tomato sauce, and paste ensures a rich, robust base. The inclusion of Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning enhances the complexity, and the fresh herbs added at the end provide a burst of freshness. Cooking it low and slow in the crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve over al dente pasta for a satisfying dish.

Enhance Your Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread Supreme: Garlic Bread Supreme: Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread infused with garlic and herbs. This side-dish is the perfect companion to your crockpot spaghetti sauce, offering a crunchy exterior with a soft, buttery inside. Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a dash of parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

Caprese Salad Delight: Caprese Salad Delight: A vibrant mix of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with a balsamic reduction. This refreshing salad not only adds a splash of color to your plate but also complements the rich, hearty flavors of the spaghetti sauce with its light and tangy profile.

Stuffed Mushrooms Extravaganza: Stuffed Mushrooms Extravaganza: These mushrooms are filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, spinach, and breadcrumbs, then baked to golden perfection. Each bite offers a delightful contrast to the robust meat sauce, making it a memorable addition to your meal.

Roasted Veggie Medley: Roasted Veggie Medley: A colorful assortment of zucchini, bell peppers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes, all roasted to caramelized perfection. This side-dish brings a touch of sweetness and a hint of smokiness, balancing the savory notes of your spaghetti sauce beautifully.

Lemon Basil Sorbet: Lemon Basil Sorbet: End your meal on a refreshing note with this light and zesty dessert. The tartness of lemon combined with the aromatic basil creates a palate-cleansing experience that leaves you feeling satisfied and rejuvenated.

Similar Recipes to Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce

Classic Lasagna: Dive into layers of rich ground beef, creamy ricotta cheese, and perfectly cooked lasagna noodles. This dish is a symphony of flavors, topped with melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Experience the delightful combination of ground beef, rice, and a medley of vegetables, all encased in vibrant bell peppers. Baked to perfection, these peppers are a wholesome and colorful meal.

Bolognese Sauce: Indulge in a hearty Italian classic with this rich and savory meat sauce. Slow-cooked with ground beef, pork, and a blend of aromatic vegetables, this sauce pairs beautifully with any pasta.

Chicken Parmesan: Savor the crispy, golden-brown chicken cutlets topped with a luscious marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. Serve over a bed of spaghetti for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Eggplant Parmesan: Delight in layers of breaded and fried eggplant, smothered in marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella. This vegetarian dish is a hearty and flavorful alternative to traditional meat dishes.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your dining experience with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump, juicy mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The breadcrumbs on top add a delightful crunch, while the Parmesan cheese melts to golden perfection. These bite-sized delights are perfect for setting the stage for your main course.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to the heart of Italy with bruschetta. Freshly toasted baguette slices are topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt bring out the flavors, making each bite a burst of freshness. This classic appetizer pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that combines layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a rich and creamy mascarpone cheese mixture. The top is dusted with a generous amount of cocoa powder, adding a touch of bitterness to balance the sweetness. This dessert is perfect for those who love a combination of coffee and cream, making it an ideal end to a hearty meal like crockpot spaghetti.

Panna Cotta: Panna Cotta is a silky, smooth Italian dessert that translates to 'cooked cream.' This delicate treat is made by simmering cream, milk, and sugar together before setting it with gelatin. Often served with a fruit coulis or a caramel sauce, it provides a light and refreshing contrast to a rich main course. The subtle flavors and creamy texture make it a sophisticated choice for any dinner party.

Why trust this Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe:

This crockpot spaghetti sauce recipe is a game-changer for busy cooks. By using a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage, it delivers rich, hearty flavors. The slow cooking process allows the tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste to meld beautifully with the onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Fresh parsley and basil added at the end elevate the dish. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and depth of flavor.

Want to share your own crockpot spaghetti sauce recipe or discuss tips and techniques? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's talk all things slow-cooked pasta sauce!

FAQ:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just follow the same instructions for browning the meat.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, you can! This sauce freezes really well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It should keep for up to 3 months.

Do I need to cook the pasta separately?

Yes, you should cook the pasta separately according to the package directions. The sauce is made in the crockpot, but the pasta needs to be boiled separately.

Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?

Sure thing! Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots. Just chop them up and add them to the crockpot with the other ingredients.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of water or let the sauce cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes. You can also add a bit more tomato paste to thicken it up.