If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy, and savory pasta dish that requires minimal effort, Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta is your go-to recipe. This slow cooker meal combines rich flavors, hearty pasta, and melty cheese, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or a comforting dinner to feed the whole family. The best part? It’s all made in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze!
What Is Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta?
Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta is a decadent, creamy pasta casserole made with ingredients like cream cheese, ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and pasta. The dish gets its name from its rich, indulgent flavor, which makes you feel like you’re eating a million-dollar meal without the hefty price tag. The slow-cooking method allows the flavors to meld together, creating a velvety texture and deliciously cheesy finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of pasta (penne or rotini works best)
- 1 jar of marinara sauce (about 24 ounces)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ground beef, sausage, or vegetables for added flavor
How to Make Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions, but make sure to slightly undercook it (about 1-2 minutes less than the recommended cooking time). This will help prevent the pasta from becoming too soft as it cooks further in the slow cooker. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and creamy. Add the marinara sauce and mix until smooth.
Step 3: Layer in the Slow Cooker
Grease your slow cooker with a little cooking spray or butter. Add a layer of cooked pasta at the bottom of the slow cooker, then pour half of the creamy sauce mixture over the pasta. Repeat the layering with the remaining pasta and sauce. Top the final layer with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also cook on high for 1.5-2 hours if you’re short on time.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the pasta is done, give it a quick stir to mix the melted cheese and sauce. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness of Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta.
Tips for the Perfect Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta
- Add Protein: For a more hearty meal, consider adding ground beef, sausage, or chicken to the sauce. Brown the meat beforehand and layer it with the pasta and sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add some veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like provolone or cheddar to customize the flavor.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the pasta and sauce in the slow cooker the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, simply set it to cook for an easy dinner later on.
Why You’ll Love Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta
- Minimal Effort: Just throw everything in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. It’s an easy dish with maximum flavor.
- Perfect for Busy Nights: Whether you’re coming home from work or after running errands, this dish is ready to serve without a lot of prep time.
- Customizable: With options for adding proteins and vegetables, you can make this recipe work for all dietary preferences and tastes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The cheesy, comforting flavor is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s both simple and luxurious. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and ease of preparation, it’s a perfect meal for busy families or anyone who loves hearty pasta dishes. Try it today and enjoy the rich flavors of this million-dollar meal without the hassle!
Serving and Storage Tips for Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta
Serving Tips:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: For added flavor and color, top your Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta with fresh basil or parsley before serving. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a touch of heat if desired.
- Pair with a Side Salad: To balance out the richness of the pasta, serve it with a fresh green salad or a side of garlic bread. The crunch and acidity will complement the creamy pasta beautifully.
- Serve with Extra Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, don’t hesitate to add extra Parmesan or mozzarella on top just before serving. A quick broil in the oven can also give the top a golden, crispy finish.
- Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prepping. You can store individual portions in airtight containers for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This will keep the flavors fresh and the dish ready to be reheated when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
- Freezing: If you want to save Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta for a later date, you can freeze it. Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture. You can also heat it in the oven for about 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to get a bubbly, crispy top.
By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll be able to enjoy Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta for days to come and ensure that it stays as delicious as when it was first made!
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta? Yes! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, but it’s best to choose a sturdy pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni, as these hold up well in the slow cooker. Just make sure to slightly undercook the pasta before adding it to the crock pot to prevent it from becoming too soft.
2. Can I make Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and sauce the night before and store them in the fridge. In the morning, simply set the slow cooker to cook, and you’ll have a hot, comforting meal ready in a few hours.
3. Can I add meat to this recipe? Yes! Ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken are all great additions. Brown the meat beforehand and layer it with the pasta and sauce for a more hearty meal. You can also add some vegetables for a complete, balanced dish.
4. Can I freeze leftovers of Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta? Yes, Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven until heated through. Adding a splash of milk or cream can help restore the creamy texture if it thickens after freezing.
Print
Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Description
Crock Pot Million Dollar Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish made with layers of pasta, ground beef, cream cheese, and melty mozzarella. This easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd!
Ingredients
Serves 6-8
- For the meat sauce:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz / 680 g) jar of marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the cheese mixture:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240 g) ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- For the pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne or rigatoni pasta, cooked al dente
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the meat sauce:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain excess grease.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Make the cheese mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble in the slow cooker:
- Spray the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add half of the cooked pasta on top of the sauce.
- Spoon half of the cheese mixture over the pasta and spread it gently.
- Repeat the layers (meat sauce, pasta, cheese mixture), ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
- Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1.5-2 hours.
- Add the final cheese layer:
- In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover and let the cheese melt.
- Serve:
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier version, use Italian sausage instead of ground beef and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Make sure the pasta is cooked al dente before layering, as it will continue to cook in the slow cooker.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.