Dump-and-Go Crockpot Spaghetti Casserole
The Dump-and-Go Crockpot Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender spaghetti noodles, savory ground meat, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese, this slow-cooked casserole offers rich Italian flavors with minimal prep and cleanup. Adaptable for various dietary needs, it’s ideal for families or anyone seeking a hassle-free, hearty dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 5 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Can be gluten-free if using gluten-free noodles; adaptable for vegetarian or vegan diets
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Base
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 8 oz spaghetti noodles (regular or gluten-free)
Sauce and Liquids
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups water or broth
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheese blend (e.g., mozzarella and cheddar)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Start by browning your ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and crumbly. This step enhances flavor and ensures no raw meat remains.
- Prepare the Crockpot: Place the browned meat at the bottom of the crockpot. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and sprinkle Italian seasoning evenly on top.
- Add Noodles and Sauce: Break the spaghetti noodles in half so they fit easily in the pot. Scatter the noodles evenly over the meat and vegetables. Pour marinara sauce and water or broth over everything, making sure the noodles are mostly submerged.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot and set it to low. Cook for 4 to 5 hours until noodles are tender and the sauce thickens, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add Cheese and Finish: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese blend on top. Close the lid again and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Pre-soak noodles in warm water for 10 minutes before adding to ensure perfectly tender pasta.
- Layering matters: keep meat and seasonings at the bottom to allow flavors to infuse upward.
- Do not stir frequently; avoid opening the lid often to maintain consistent cooking temperature.
- Use a timer or smart plug to avoid overcooking and ensure optimal doneness.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to settle and sauce to thicken.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/6th of casserole)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: crockpot casserole, spaghetti casserole, easy dinner, slow cooker pasta, dump-and-go recipe, Italian casserole, weeknight meal