Nothing beats a hearty, cheesy pasta after a long day. With just five simple ingredients, this slow cooker beef and cheese pasta delivers rich flavor, tender pasta, and melty cheese with almost no effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Beef and Cheese Pasta
Servings: 6
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Marinara sauce | 1 jar (24 ounces) |
| Uncooked pasta (rotini or penne) | 3 cups |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 2 cups |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
Directions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, then drain any excess fat.
- Add the cooked beef, marinara sauce, uncooked pasta, and Italian seasoning to the slow cooker. Stir until well combined.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours, until the pasta is tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top. Cover to let the cheese melt.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this easy, one-pot meal.
Variations & Tips
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a little heat. Swap mozzarella for cheddar or an Italian cheese blend to mix up the flavors. Toss in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture. For a creamier dish, stir in ½ cup of cream cheese or sour cream just before serving.
This slow cooker pasta is the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence — cheesy, meaty, and made with minimal effort for maximum comfort.
