Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti

 

Slow Cooker Church Supper Spaghetti

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

2 pounds ground beef — lean or regular, depending on your flavor preference

1 large onion, finely chopped — adds sweetness and depth

4 cloves garlic, minced — for rich aromatic flavor

2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes — the base of your slow-simmered sauce

1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce — adds smoothness and body

1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste — deepens the tomato flavor

½ cup red wine (optional) — enhances richness and complexity

1 tablespoon sugar — balances acidity from the tomatoes

Seasonings

2 teaspoons dried basil — classic Italian herb for warmth and aroma

2 teaspoons dried oregano — adds earthiness and depth

1 teaspoon dried parsley — for freshness and color

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes — gentle heat and a lively kick

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste — for perfect seasoning

For the Pasta

1 pound spaghetti — cooked al dente to soak up the flavorful sauce

Optional Garnish

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese — for a savory finish

Fresh parsley or basil, chopped — adds brightness before serving

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Aromatics

In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.

Once the meat is no longer pink, drain any excess fat to prevent a greasy sauce.

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This base builds the deep flavor your sauce will carry.

Step 2: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the cooked beef mixture to your slow cooker.

Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and (if using) red wine for depth and richness.

Sprinkle in the sugar, dried basil, oregano, parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.

Stir everything together until the sauce is evenly mixed and aromatic.

Step 3: Let the Sauce Simmer Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook:

On LOW for 6–8 hours for a slow, mellow flavor, or

On HIGH for 3–4 hours if you’re short on time.

During this stage, the herbs infuse the sauce, and the tomatoes develop a deep, church-supper-style richness that tastes like it simmered all day.

Step 4: Cook and Add the Pasta

About 30 minutes before serving, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente — tender but with a slight bite.

Drain well, then add the cooked pasta directly into the slow cooker.

Toss gently until the noodles are fully coated in the thick, flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Rest, Serve, and Enjoy

Let the spaghetti sit in the slow cooker (still on Warm or Low) for another 10 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the sauce and flavors.

Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley if desired.

Pair with garlic bread and a green salad for the perfect comforting meal — ideal for potlucks, Sunday suppers, or any family gathering.