crock pot spaghetti casserole

Here’s a delicious and easy Crock Pot Spaghetti Casserole recipe for you:

Crock Pot Spaghetti Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24-ounce) jar of your favorite pasta sauce
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (16-ounce) package of spaghetti, broken into thirds
• 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Meat:
   • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks.
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and cook until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   • Transfer the cooked meat mixture to the Crock Pot.
   • Stir in the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the Pasta:
   • Add the broken spaghetti to the Crock Pot, distributing it evenly.
   • Pour the water or chicken broth over the spaghetti, making sure it is mostly submerged in the liquid.
4. Cook:
   • Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, stirring halfway through to ensure the spaghetti is evenly cooked and doesn’t stick together.
5. Add the Cheese:
   • About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Once the cheese is melted and the spaghetti is tender, turn off the Crock Pot.
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Enjoy your warm, comforting Crock Pot Spaghetti Casserole!