If you’ve ever dreamed of the perfect hearty and flavorful sauce that leisurely simmers to perfection, let me introduce you to the Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe. This sauce is a soul-warming blend of savory ground beef, Italian sausage, ripe tomatoes, and just the right mix of herbs that gives every bite a delicious depth. Slow-cooked to allow all those amazing flavors to mingle, this recipe is ideal for busy days when you want a fuss-free, comforting meal waiting for you. Trust me, it’s a game-changer for pasta nights and will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each element plays a key role: the combination of ground beef and Italian sausage brings rich meaty flavor, while the trio of crushed tomatoes, sauce, and paste creates that thick, luscious texture. The herbs and spices infuse the sauce with a true homemade taste, elevating it far beyond the ordinary.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty and meaty base packed with flavor.
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), casing removed: Adds a spicy or mild kick and depth.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Offers sweetness and balance when cooked down.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic, pungent goodness.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: The core ingredient for that fresh, natural tomato flavor and texture.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Smooths and enriches the sauce’s body.
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato richness.
- 1/2 cup water or red wine (optional): Adjusts consistency and adds subtle complexity.
- 2 teaspoons dried basil: Brings a classic herbal sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, warm Italian aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Contributes subtle floral notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances and balances all flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Delivers a gentle bite to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional): Perfect for smoothing out tomato acidity.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a pleasantly spicy edge.
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh green note and pretty garnish.
How to Make Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cooking the meat thoroughly and getting a little caramelization enhances the savory base of your sauce. Remember to drain off any excess fat to avoid greasiness, allowing the rich meaty flavor to shine through without heaviness.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
Transfer your perfectly cooked meat into the crockpot, then toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. These aromatics will slowly sweeten and mellow during the long cooking, building layers of flavor you just can’t get with quick-cooking.
Step 3: Add the Tomato Trio and Liquids
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste right on top. If you want your sauce a bit thinner or desire an extra depth, incorporate the optional half cup of water or red wine here. This step sets the luscious, rich foundation for your sauce to develop over time.
Step 4: Season It Well
Sprinkle in dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, sugar, and red pepper flakes if using. Give everything a good stir to get those herbs and spices distributed evenly, ensuring each bite is loaded with that classic Italian flavor you crave.
Step 5: Let It Slow Cook
Cover the crockpot and cook your sauce on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Slow cooking melds all the ingredients so wonderfully, creating a thick, aromatic sauce that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Don’t forget to stir occasionally if you can, making sure nothing sticks and all flavors blend beautifully.
Step 6: Final Taste & Garnish
Before serving, taste your sauce and adjust seasonings if necessary. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley to introduce a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens the whole dish. Now your Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe is ready to delight!
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Serve this comforting sauce over your favorite pasta, or use it as a rich base for lasagna or baked ziti. The possibilities are endless, and its versatility makes it a fantastic, crowd-pleasing favorite.
How to Serve Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the simplest way to add a fresh pop of green and brighten each serving. For a bit more flair, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese. A drizzle of good olive oil or a few fresh basil leaves also lift the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
Crisp garlic bread or soft buttery dinner rolls are classic companions for scooping up every last drop of sauce. A fresh green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich tomato and meat flavors. Roasted vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, work wonderfully too.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond spaghetti noodles—use this sauce for stuffed peppers, baked ziti casseroles, or even atop grilled polenta. For something fun, create mini spaghetti pie cups using puff pastry and bake them as unique appetizers. This Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe adapts beautifully to whatever pasta or dish you dream up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow your sauce to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it an excellent meal prep option that only gets better next day.
Freezing
This sauce freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, so you always have the Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe ready for quick meals.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it thickened too much during storage, stir in a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Either way, your sauce will taste just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce without the Italian sausage?
Absolutely! You can either increase the ground beef quantity or substitute with another ground meat like turkey or chicken. The Italian sausage adds flavor complexity, but the sauce will still be delicious without it.
Is it necessary to use all three tomato products?
Using crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste together creates the perfect balance of texture and intensity. If you must simplify, crushed tomatoes plus paste can work but you might lose some depth and smoothness.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Totally! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots can be added with the onions and garlic for extra nutrition and volume. Just keep in mind that additional moisture might alter cooking time slightly.
What can I use instead of red wine?
Water, beef broth, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar are great non-alcoholic alternatives that bring moisture and subtle flavors without overpowering the sauce.
How long can I cook the sauce in the crockpot?
For best results, cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Overcooking might break down the meat too much and affect texture, but keeping it within this window ensures perfect flavor melding.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about coming home to a crockpot full of rich, tangy, meaty spaghetti sauce that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. The Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that warms your kitchen and your heart with every serving. So grab your ingredients, set your crockpot, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as simple to make as it is irresistible. Your pasta nights just got a whole lot better!
Print
Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce is a rich, flavorful sauce simmered low and slow in a crockpot, featuring a perfect blend of ground beef, Italian sausage, tomatoes, and fragrant herbs. Ideal for busy days, this recipe yields a hearty sauce perfect for serving over pasta or using in baked Italian dishes like lasagna or ziti.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), casing removed
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Base
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1/2 cup water or red wine (optional, for desired consistency)
Herbs & Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from being too greasy.
- Add Meat and Aromatics to Crockpot: Transfer the cooked meat into your crockpot. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic on top to build layers of flavor.
- Add Tomato Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and, if desired, water or red wine to achieve your preferred sauce consistency.
- Season the Sauce: Sprinkle in dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Mix thoroughly so all the ingredients blend well.
- Slow Cook the Sauce: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust Seasoning and Garnish: Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or sugar as needed. Just before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
- Serve: Serve this rich spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta or use it as a hearty base for dishes like lasagna or baked ziti.
Notes
- For a spicier sauce, increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
- Using red wine adds depth but water can be substituted for a milder flavor.
- Drain the cooked meat well to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Leftover sauce freezes well for up to 3 months.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meats and add mushrooms or lentils instead.
- Adjust cooking times based on your crockpot model and temperature preferences.
