Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti

by

There’s something truly special about a big, hearty meal shared with loved ones. Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti brings the nostalgia of community gatherings straight to your table. Inspired by those church potluck meals where everyone pitches in to create a feast, this recipe is designed to feed a crowd with minimal fuss. The beauty of this dish lies in its slow-cooked nature, where flavors meld and deepen over time, creating a rich, comforting sauce that perfectly coats each strand of pasta. Whether you’re feeding a large family or preparing for a gathering, this easy yet flavorful dish ensures everyone leaves satisfied.

Pair this delicious spaghetti with a crisp salad, such as a classic Caesar or a simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Some garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls will soak up every bit of the rich sauce, adding the perfect side to complete the meal. And for an extra touch of comfort, serve sautéed green beans or steamed broccoli. End the meal with something light, like lemon sorbet, to cleanse your palate.

Servings: 8-10 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound spaghetti

Directions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion turns translucent.
  3. Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, red wine (if using), sugar, basil, oregano, parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  5. About 20-30 minutes before serving, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
  6. Drain the spaghetti and add it to the slow cooker, mixing well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with sauce.
  7. Let the spaghetti sit in the slow cooker for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors before serving.

Variations & Tips

  • For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with diced vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative.
  • To make the sauce creamier, stir in a splash of cream or grated Parmesan cheese towards the end of cooking.
  • Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add hot sauce if you enjoy a spicier dish.
  • Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

Nutritional Insights & Dietary Considerations

This Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti provides a hearty serving of protein from the ground beef and is rich in tomatoes, which are full of antioxidants. The sauce is naturally filling and comforting, with the addition of pasta providing a satisfying carbohydrate component. For those watching their fat intake, consider using lean ground beef or substituting with a plant-based meat alternative. If you’re seeking a lighter version, you can reduce the sugar or eliminate it altogether. For a gluten-free dish, simply swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety.

Sharing and Commenting is Caring

I’d love to know how your version of this Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti turns out! Leave a comment below to share your thoughts, suggestions, or any variations you made. Your feedback not only helps others but inspires me to keep sharing more easy and delicious recipes. Happy cooking!