Description of this recipe:
Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta is a delightful blend of creamy cheeses, savory ground beef, and al dente cavatappi pasta, all simmered together in a rich spaghetti sauce. This dish is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also delivers a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Why you will love this recipe:
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and the depth of flavor it offers. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully while you attend to other tasks. The creamy texture combined with the cheesy goodness makes it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a hearty pasta meal. The Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta takes the classic pasta experience and elevates it to new heights with its rich, creamy sauce and tender ground beef. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of a bubbling pasta dish, ready to be served. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 8 oz block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 (24 oz) jars spaghetti sauce, divided use
- 24 oz jar water
- 16 oz box cavatappi pasta
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Preparation:
Step 1:
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown and crumble the ground beef until it is fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
Step 2:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, and dried parsley. Mix together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the rich, cheesy layer that adds flavor and texture to your pasta.
Step 3:
Prepare your slow cooker by spreading half a jar of spaghetti sauce at the bottom. This will create a flavorful base for your pasta to cook in.
Step 4:
Layer half of the uncooked cavatappi pasta over the sauce, followed by half of the cooked ground beef. Then, dollop the cream cheese mixture evenly over the beef layer. Avoid stirring at this point; the layers will meld during cooking.
Step 5:
Add the remaining pasta on top, followed by the rest of the spaghetti sauce and half a jar of water. Finally, layer the remaining ground beef on top. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 2-3 hours. Check at the 2-hour mark to ensure the pasta is fully cooked and tender.
Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, cover, and let it cook for an additional few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a touch of color, sprinkle with dried parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta is best served hot, straight from the slow cooker. Pair it with a simple side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to individual servings.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Simply layer the ingredients in the slow cooker and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just set it to cook.
- Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
- Freezing: This pasta dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
2-3 hours
Total Time:
2 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approx. 650
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 900mg
Conclusion
Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and comfort. With its creamy texture, savory beef, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite. So grab your slow cooker, gather the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious pasta dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Questions and Answers
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute cavatappi with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may require slight adjustments.
2. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or omit it entirely and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the meat mixture. You can also use a spicy spaghetti sauce for an extra kick.
4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can layer all the ingredients in the slow cooker the night before, refrigerate, and then cook it the next day. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
5. What should I do if the pasta is still hard after cooking?
If the pasta isn’t fully cooked after the initial cooking time, simply cover the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 15-30 minutes, checking periodically until the pasta reaches your desired tenderness.