slow cooker spaghetti sauce recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best slow cooker spaghetti sauce recipe

This slow cooker spaghetti sauce has been a game changer in my kitchen. I love that I can just throw everything in the pot in the morning and come home to a house that smells amazing. My kids used to be picky about tomato sauce, but this one is so rich and flavorful they always ask for seconds. It is also packed with vegetables like carrots and celery, so I feel good about serving it to my family. Whether it is a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday, this recipe makes dinner feel special without a lot of fuss.

Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce

4.9 from 1916 votes

A hearty and flavorful spaghetti sauce made in the slow cooker. This sauce is simmered for hours to develop deep rich flavors.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time6 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time6 hours 20 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 250 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons dried oregano
2 tablespoons dried basil
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 carrots, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, finely chopped

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
2Add ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
3Transfer the meat mixture to a slow cooker.
4Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, pepper, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
6Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve over cooked spaghetti.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Slow cooker (6 quart or larger)
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 250 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add an extra can of beans or lentils. This sauce also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce Works

This slow cooker spaghetti sauce is always a hit in my house. It is so easy to put together and the results are amazing every time. I love that I can make a big batch and have dinner ready for the whole family, or even freeze some for later.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can. You will need about 3 pounds of ripe tomatoes. Blanch them first to remove the skins, then chop them up. You may need to cook the sauce a little longer to thicken it since fresh tomatoes have more water.

2. Do I need to brown the meat first?

Browning the meat adds a lot of flavor to the sauce. If you skip this step, the sauce will taste less rich. I always take the few extra minutes to do it.

3. Can I make this sauce in advance?

Absolutely. This sauce tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. You can make it up to 3 days ahead and keep it in the fridge. It also freezes really well.

4. How can I make this sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, take the lid off the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste to help thicken it.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

Sure. Mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini all work great in this sauce. Just chop them small and add them when you add the other vegetables.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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