Cheeseburger Pasta: A Savory Slow Cooker Delight
For a meal that combines the hearty, comforting flavors of a cheeseburger with the satisfying texture of pasta, this Cheeseburger Pasta Slow Cooker Recipe is a must-try. This dish brings together well-seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Cheeseburger Pasta: A Savory Slow Cooker Delight
6
servings10
minutes4
hours14
kcalIngredients
1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon oil
1 cup onions, diced and divided
1 medium red bell pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups uncooked pasta (any kind)
1 (16-ounce) jar marinara sauce
28 ounces diced tomatoes, canned or fresh
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups water
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Directions
- In a medium pan over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for about 5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain the excess fat.
- Add half of the diced onions to the pan and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they soften.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 20 seconds.
- Turn off the heat and transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker.
- Cook the pasta to al dente according to the package instructions, then set aside.
- To the slow cooker, add the jar of marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, remaining diced onions, chopped red bell pepper, paprika, oregano, Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, and water.
- Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Cover and cook the mixture on LOW for 4 hours.
- After 4 hours, add the cooked pasta and shredded mozzarella cheese to the slow cooker.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve hot, garnished with shredded parmesan cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheeseburger Pasta recipe is a fantastic fusion of two comfort food classics. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the flavors of the seasoned beef, tangy marinara, and aromatic spices to meld together beautifully. The addition of pasta and gooey mozzarella makes it a filling, family-friendly meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With minimal prep time, it’s perfect for those days when you want a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish straight from the slow cooker for a warm, comforting meal. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out the meal. For a lighter option, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans make a great accompaniment.
Tips for Success
- Cooking the pasta to al dente before adding it to the slow cooker prevents it from becoming mushy during the final mixing.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste, adding more paprika or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- For a spicier twist, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
- If you prefer a different cheese, swap the mozzarella for cheddar to enhance the cheeseburger vibe.
This Cheeseburger Pasta Slow Cooker Recipe, inspired by @fooddolls, is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the best of both worlds. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.