Description
This ground beef crock pot recipe is a hearty, cheesy slow cooker meal perfect for busy weeknights. It’s easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and packed with delicious flavors. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef (90/10 or 80/20)
- 2 cups uncooked rotini or elbow macaroni
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a slow cooker, add the browned beef, onions, bell peppers, garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings. Stir to combine.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Add Pasta & Cheese: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in uncooked pasta and ½ cup of cheese. Add more broth if needed.
- Final Touch: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and cook until melted.
- Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For a creamier casserole, add ½ cup heavy cream before serving.
- To make it spicier, add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes.
- Gluten-free option: Swap pasta for gluten-free noodles or rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Category: lunsh
- Cuisine: American