Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta

Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta is a rich, hearty, and satisfying dish perfect for busy days when you want dinner to cook itself. Tender ground beef simmers in a savory, seasoned tomato and cream sauce, then gets combined with pasta and melty cheese for a delicious, no-fuss comfort meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is an easy, hands-off dinner solution that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work, letting the beef and seasonings develop deep flavor while you go about your day. It’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting—ideal for weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a hungry crowd.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
• Beef broth
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Heavy cream or cream cheese
• Cheddar cheese or mozzarella, shredded
• Pasta (rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni)
• Olive oil or butter

directions

this recipe

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with onion until browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Transfer beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
4. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in uncooked pasta and heavy cream (or cream cheese).
5. Cook until pasta is tender, about 25–30 minutes.
6. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total time: 6.5 to 7.5 hours

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
• Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra veggies
• Swap in Alfredo sauce for a creamier white sauce version
• Use shell pasta or cavatappi for a fun texture change
• Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave in 30–60 second intervals, stirring in between. You can also reheat on the stove over medium heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I put the pasta in at the beginning?

It’s best to add pasta in the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking and mushiness.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes. Let the pasta cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat as needed.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Short-cut pasta like penne, rotini, or elbows work best and hold up well in the sauce.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce?

Yes, substitute crushed tomatoes and seasonings with your favorite marinara or pasta sauce.

Is cream cheese a good substitute for heavy cream?

Absolutely. It adds richness and creaminess—just be sure it’s softened and stirred in well.

Can I cook the beef in the slow cooker instead?

Technically yes, but browning it first adds more flavor and helps reduce excess grease.

How can I make it spicier?

Add hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or spicy Italian sausage in place of ground beef.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach either at the beginning or with the pasta.

What type of cheese is best?

Cheddar gives a sharp flavor, mozzarella adds creaminess, and a blend of both is ideal.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but make sure your slow cooker has enough capacity to handle the increased volume.

Conclusion

Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta is the definition of comfort made easy. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you get a rich, cheesy, and satisfying dinner the whole family will love. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this recipe is a reliable go-to that never disappoints.

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