Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti

This Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family meal. Packed with savory ground beef (or Italian sausage), aromatic spices, and rich pasta sauce, this recipe simmers all day in your slow cooker for maximum flavor. Just add cooked spaghetti before serving, and you’ve got a delicious, no-fuss meal that’s sure to please everyone!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (24 oz) jars pasta sauce (your favorite kind)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional, for added texture and flavor)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 12–16 oz spaghetti (cooked according to package instructions, for serving)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Meat

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if needed.
2. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 2: Transfer to the Slow Cooker

1. Transfer the cooked meat mixture to your slow cooker.
2. Add the pasta sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3: Cook

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours , stirring occasionally if possible. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Spaghetti

1. About 15–20 minutes before serving, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Serve

1. To serve, place a portion of cooked spaghetti on each plate and top generously with the slow-cooked meat sauce.
2. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Customize the Sauce: Add a splash of red wine, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a teaspoon of dried oregano to enhance the sauce’s depth of flavor.
• Make It Heartier: Stir in sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra veggies.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully! Portion the sauce into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the meat and sauce to simmer and develop deep, savory flavors throughout the day. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, preparing a weeknight dinner, or feeding a hungry family, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Pair it with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy. Dive into this hearty, cheesy delight and enjoy every bite!