Cheesy Crockpot Ground Beef Pasta
A comforting dish bringing together rich ground beef, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese, all made effortlessly in a crockpot.
Ingredients
Meat and Base Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 medium onion, diced Adds flavor to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
Pasta and Sauces
- 1 package (16 oz) pasta (e.g., penne or rotini) Choose your favorite pasta shape.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce Choose your preferred brand.
- 1 cup beef broth For additional flavor.
Cheese and Seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella) Add more or less cheese based on preference.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes Add for additional flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onions and garlic until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
Crockpot Cooking
- In a crockpot, combine the cooked beef mixture, pasta, marinara sauce, beef broth, and seasoning.
- Stir to combine and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until pasta is tender.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the shredded cheese until melted.
Serving
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for 2-3 months. Consider adding vegetables for enhanced nutrition.