There’s something truly heartwarming about a slow-cooked pasta dish that fills the home with the rich aromas of simmered tomatoes, herbs, and melted cheese. Ground Beef Mostaccioli cooked in a slow cooker is one of those timeless meals that’s both comforting and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying dinner waiting for you. Rooted in Italian-American tradition, this recipe reflects generations of family gatherings and Sunday dinners, where every bite brings back memories of home and togetherness. Using a slow cooker not only makes this dish fuss-free but also allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making each mouthful more delicious than the last.
Serve this hearty mostaccioli alongside a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread to balance out the richness. For extra nutrition and color, steamed vegetables like green beans or a simple medley are a perfect addition. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences, making it a reliable go-to for any weeknight or special occasion.
Slow Cooker Ground Beef Mostaccioli
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups mostaccioli pasta, uncooked
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion, garlic, and green pepper to the skillet and cook until vegetables are softened.
- Transfer the beef and veggie mixture into the slow cooker.
- Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
- After 4 hours, add the uncooked mostaccioli pasta, stirring to ensure it’s covered with sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Cover and cook on low for an additional 1 hour, until pasta is tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition and Dietary Notes:
This dish offers a balanced mix of protein from the ground beef and carbohydrates from the pasta, providing a filling and energizing meal. The tomatoes contribute antioxidants and vitamins, while the cheese adds calcium and richness. To reduce saturated fat and calories, you can swap ground beef for lean turkey or plant-based meat alternatives. Using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta makes the dish accessible for various dietary needs. Keep an eye on sodium levels if you’re sensitive, as canned sauces and cheese can add saltiness.
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