If you’ve been searching high and low for a comforting, flavorful, and utterly foolproof sauce to elevate your pasta night, look no further. This Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe is a true game changer. Slow-cooked to perfection for six hours, it melds hearty ground beef, savory Italian sausage, and robust tomato flavors into a sauce that’s rich, hearty, and bursting with homemade goodness. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or want to impress a crowd with minimal effort, this sauce has got your back.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the magic in any great sauce. What makes this recipe stand out is the balance of simple, classic components that build layers of flavor over time, resulting in a sauce that’s both hearty and deeply satisfying.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a rich and meaty base that adds depth to every bite.
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), casing removed: Adds robust seasoning and a hint of spice, boosting the overall flavor complexity.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Sweated down to sweetness, it softly underpins the sauce’s savory notes.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential aromatic that brightens the sauce with its unmistakable punch.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: The tomato powerhouse, offering a perfect texture and tang.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: Adds smoothness and body for that classic spaghetti sauce consistency.
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1/2 cup water or red wine (optional): Use it to adjust the consistency and add subtle complexity with wine.
- 2 teaspoons dried basil: Brings a sweet, herbaceous aroma that’s signature in Italian cooking.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers an earthy undertone that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a gentle leafiness to round out the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances every ingredient and balances the acidity.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides mild heat and background spice.
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional): Cuts through tomato acidity for a smoother, balanced taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a little kick if you like your sauce spicy.
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Brightens presentation and adds fresh herbal notes.
How to Make Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. This step locks in the rich meaty flavors and develops a slightly caramelized texture that makes the sauce deeply satisfying. Once browned, drain excess fat before moving on.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. These aromatics form the flavorful foundation of the sauce and soften to blend seamlessly with the meat.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot
Transfer the browned meat, onions, and garlic to your crockpot. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste, stirring to unify all the flavors. If you want a thinner sauce, pour in the water or red wine—they’ll melt into the mix and add an extra layer of richness.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Sprinkle in dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and sugar if you’re using it. Don’t forget the crushed red pepper flakes if you want a touch of heat. Stir everything together, making sure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the sauce for that perfectly balanced taste.
Step 5: Slow Cook for Deep Flavor
Set your crockpot on low and cover it. Let it work its magic for at least 6 hours. Slow cooking allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a sauce that’s thick, hearty, and packed with incredible flavor. The long simmer also softens the acidity of the tomatoes, making the sauce rich and mellow.
Step 6: Final Touches
Before serving, give the sauce a good stir and taste for seasoning adjustments. If it tastes too acidic, add a pinch more sugar. If it needs a bit more salt, feel free to add that as well. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top to brighten the dish visually and add fresh herbal notes.
How to Serve Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
This sauce shines when topped with fresh garnishes. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil gives a lovely pop of color and fresh flavor. For cheese lovers, a generous grating of Parmesan or pecorino adds a salty, nutty contrast that you won’t want to miss.
Side Dishes
Serve this sauce over your favorite pasta to soak up all that rich tomato goodness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for mopping up every last drop. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce, making the meal complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to switch things up? Use this sauce in a baked pasta casserole layered with mozzarella and ricotta for a hearty lasagna-style dish. It’s also wonderful spooned over grilled polenta or even as a robust topping for stuffed peppers. The possibilities are endless with such a versatile sauce at hand.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sauce keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights when you need a quick, delicious meal. Just reheat and serve with your choice of pasta or use as a base for other dishes.
Freezing
The Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and you’ll have homemade sauce ready to go with minimal effort.
Reheating
Reheat your sauce gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much. Alternatively, microwave it in intervals, stirring in between, until warm throughout. Reheating this sauce brings back all of its original richness.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce without meat?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and sausage, and consider adding chopped mushrooms or lentils for a hearty texture. The slow cooking process still brings out wonderful flavors from the tomatoes and herbs.
Is it necessary to brown the meat before adding to the crockpot?
Browning the meat adds depth of flavor and enhances the texture of the sauce. While you can skip this step, the sauce won’t develop that rich, caramelized taste that makes this recipe stand out.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, you can! Fresh herbs provide a lively brightness but should be added closer to the end of the cooking time to preserve their flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs in place of dried.
What pasta pairs best with this sauce?
This sauce is versatile and pairs well with any pasta shape, from classic spaghetti to rigatoni or penne. Consider thicker noodles to help the hearty sauce cling better.
Can I add vegetables to this sauce?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can be added in the beginning for extra nutrition and flavor. They soften during the slow cooking and complement the sauce beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Sharing the Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe is like passing along a little secret of pure comfort and ease that fills your kitchen with warmth and irresistible aromas. It’s the perfect go-to for busy days when you want a homemade meal that truly tastes special. Once you try this sauce, I’m sure it’ll find a permanent place in your recipe collection—and your heart.
Print
Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Sauces
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Best Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce recipe offers a rich, savory, and slow-cooked tomato sauce infused with Italian sausage, ground beef, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for busy days, it simmers gently in a crockpot for hours, developing deep flavors that pair wonderfully with your favorite pasta dishes.
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
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1/2 cup water or red wine (optional, for desired consistency)
- 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, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking up the meat with a spoon until fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain excess fat and transfer the meat to the crockpot.
- Add Vegetables and Tomato Ingredients: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the crockpot along with the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
- Season the Sauce: Pour in the water or red wine if using, then add the dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6 hours. Stir occasionally if possible to prevent sticking. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully.
- Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more water or wine. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
- Serve: Spoon the sauce over cooked spaghetti or your pasta of choice, and enjoy a comforting Italian classic meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Adding red wine adds depth but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
- The sugar balances acidity, but can be skipped for a more natural tomato flavor.
- Leftover sauce freezes well for up to 3 months.
- For a thicker sauce, cook uncovered during the last 30 minutes.
