Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti
Looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare? This Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, and gatherings. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to develop into a rich, savory sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta. Serve this comforting dish at your next church supper or casual dinner, and watch it disappear!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy to Make: Minimal prep work—just brown the meat and let the slow cooker do the rest!
✔ Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for large gatherings and potlucks.
✔ Rich and Flavorful: Slow cooking enhances the depth of flavors.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep and leftovers.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (24 oz) jars pasta sauce (your favorite kind)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional, for extra texture and flavor)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles, cooked separately
- Parmesan cheese & fresh basil, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or Italian sausage) over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked meat mixture to a slow cooker. Stir in the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Sauce
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
About 30 minutes before serving, cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the sauce over the cooked spaghetti and toss to combine, or serve the sauce on top. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad with Italian dressing.
- Garlic Bread: A classic side to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: A nutritious addition to balance the meal.
Make It Your Own
Meat Variations:
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.
- Use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor.
Vegetarian Option:
- Replace the meat with mushrooms, lentils, or zucchini for a hearty meatless sauce.
Extra Flavor Boosters:
- Stir in a splash of red wine for a richer taste.
- Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for extra texture.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: The sauce freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Troubleshooting & Tips
Sauce Too Thick?
- Stir in a little pasta water or broth to loosen it up.
Too Acidic?
- Add a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream to mellow the acidity.
Want a Creamier Sauce?
- Stir in a dollop of ricotta or heavy cream before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 10g
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti is a true comfort food classic. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Try it at your next gathering and let us know how it turns out!