There’s something truly special about meals that bring people together, and Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti captures that spirit perfectly. Inspired by the generous, crowd-pleasing dishes served at traditional church suppers across America, this recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to feed a large group without hours in the kitchen. The slow cooking method allows the rich tomato sauce to develop deep, comforting flavors that blend seamlessly with seasoned ground beef and aromatic herbs. It’s the ideal dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion when you want to serve a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal fuss.
Pair this spaghetti with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sauce. Warm garlic bread or crusty rolls make excellent accompaniments for dipping and rounding out the meal. Adding a side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans brings color and nutrition to the plate. For dessert, a refreshing lemon sorbet or creamy panna cotta makes a delightful finish to this homestyle feast.
Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti
Servings: 8–10
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:
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
- Transfer the beef mixture into the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, red wine if using, sugar, basil, oregano, parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- About 20-30 minutes before serving, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
- Add the spaghetti to the slow cooker and stir to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
- Let the spaghetti rest in the slow cooker for 10 minutes to soak up the flavors before serving hot.
Nutrition and Dietary Information:
This dish is rich in protein from the ground beef and carbohydrates from the pasta, providing a satisfying and energy-boosting meal. The tomatoes and herbs contribute antioxidants and vitamins, while the slow cooking enhances the melding of flavors without added fats. Those seeking to reduce fat can use leaner meat or substitute with plant-based proteins. Gluten-free pasta works well for anyone with gluten intolerance. Adjusting the spice level is easy by modifying the crushed red pepper flakes.
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