Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti

When it comes to feeding a large crowd for church gatherings or family get-togethers, nothing beats the simplicity and comforting taste of spaghetti. This Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti is a perfect dish to bring people together over a hearty meal. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also budget-friendly and packed with flavor. Let the slow cooker do all the work, and enjoy a delicious spaghetti dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

For Church Supper Spaghetti

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound ground Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 pound spaghetti noodles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Meat

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage until fully cooked, breaking it apart into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

1. Transfer the browned meat, onion, and garlic mixture to the slow cooker.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Pour in 1/2 cup of water to help prevent the sauce from becoming too thick during cooking.

Step 3: Slow Cook

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

1. About 30 minutes before serving, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the noodles and add them to the slow cooker. Stir until the noodles are coated with the sauce.

Step 5: Serve

1. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
2. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Meat Choice: If you prefer, you can use all ground beef or substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Avoid Overcooking the Noodles: Cook the spaghetti until just al dente, as they will continue to soften slightly after being added to the slow cooker.
• Add Veggies: If you want to add some extra nutrition, consider adding chopped bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or spinach to the slow cooker.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable broth in place of the water.
• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Bake: After adding the noodles, transfer the spaghetti to a baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake at 375°F until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in the slow cooker and add freshly cooked pasta.

2. Can I Freeze the Spaghetti Sauce?

Absolutely. Let the sauce cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Certainly! You can use other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

4. Can I Double the Recipe?

If you need to feed a larger crowd, you can double the ingredients. Just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra volume.

Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish, offering a comforting and hearty meal without the hassle. The slow cooker allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, giving you a rich and savory sauce that pairs perfectly with spaghetti noodles. Whether it’s for a church supper, a family gathering, or a busy weeknight dinner, this recipe will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.

Try this recipe for your next gathering, and watch as everyone comes back for seconds—it’s sure to become a favorite!

Happy cooking!