🍝 Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Beef and Cheese Pasta
Easy Crockpot Ground Beef Pasta for the Ultimate Comfort Food Dinner
This slow cooker beef and cheese pasta is pure comfort food perfection. Made with seasoned ground beef, rich marinara sauce, tender pasta, and melted mozzarella cheese, this easy crockpot pasta recipe is hearty, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.
With just 5 simple ingredients, you can come home to a warm, satisfying dinner that tastes like it simmered all day.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Pasta
✔ Only 5 pantry-friendly ingredients
✔ Minimal prep work
✔ Hearty and filling
✔ Perfect for busy families
✔ Great for leftovers and meal prep
📝 Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 3 cups uncooked pasta (rotini or penne work best)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
👩🍳 How to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Cheese Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned.
Drain excess fat.
(Browning first enhances flavor and prevents excess grease in the slow cooker.)
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker.
Add:
- Marinara sauce
- Uncooked pasta
- Italian seasoning
Stir everything together until evenly combined.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on:
- LOW for 4–5 hours
Cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the sauce.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top.
Cover and allow the cheese to melt completely.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, comforting slow cooker pasta dish.
🍽 What to Serve with Beef and Cheese Pasta
- Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or crusty dinner rolls
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- A glass of red wine (optional for adults)
For dessert: fruit cobbler, brownies, or homemade pie.
🔄 Variations & Tips
Add Some Heat:
Stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño.
Swap the Cheese:
Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or an Italian cheese blend.
Add Vegetables:
Sauté bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or zucchini with the beef.
Make It Creamier:
Stir in ½ cup cream cheese or sour cream before serving.
Protein Options:
Use ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef.
🥡 Leftover Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
⭐ Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy slow cooker ground beef recipe, this beef and cheese pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s simple, hearty, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors the whole family will love.
If you’d like, I can also create: