Crockpot Spaghetti and Meatballs

Crockpot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a comforting, family-friendly meal that brings classic Italian-American flavors together with the ease of slow cooking. This recipe allows tender meatballs to simmer gently in a rich tomato sauce for hours, developing deep flavor while freeing you from standing over the stove.

Cooking spaghetti directly in the crockpot near the end creates a one-pot style dish that is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for busy days. Whether you are feeding a crowd, planning a cozy weekend dinner, or preparing a make-ahead meal, this slow-cooked version delivers all the comfort of traditional spaghetti and meatballs with minimal effort.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Crockpot Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe because it brings together everything comforting about a classic Italian-inspired meal with the ease of slow cooking. There’s something incredibly satisfying about letting the crockpot do all the work while the flavors slowly develop throughout the day. The meatballs become tender and flavorful as they simmer in rich tomato sauce, absorbing all the herbs and seasonings, while the sauce itself deepens into something hearty and comforting.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

Crockpot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a must-try dish because it transforms a beloved classic into a hands-off, foolproof meal that fits seamlessly into everyday life. The slow cooking process allows the meatballs to stay juicy and tender while the sauce becomes rich and deeply flavored, something that’s hard to achieve with quick stovetop cooking.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
Total Time: Up to 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 520 calories per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 500 g ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Spaghetti

• 1 jar marinara sauce or tomato pasta sauce
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 250 g spaghetti, broken in half
• 2 cups water or broth

For Serving

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Cooking Directions

Meatballs are prepared and placed in the crockpot with tomato sauce, where they slowly cook until tender. Spaghetti is added toward the end of cooking, absorbing the sauce and completing the dish in one pot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix gently until just combined, then form into evenly sized meatballs.
3. Spread marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes in the bottom of the crockpot.
4. Place meatballs into the sauce, ensuring they are mostly covered.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, break spaghetti in half and add it to the crockpot along with water or broth.
7. Stir gently to submerge the pasta in the sauce.
8. Cover and cook for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until spaghetti is tender.
9. Stir gently, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.

How to Serve

Serve Crockpot Spaghetti and Meatballs hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Pair it with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
• Break spaghetti in half so it fits easily in the crockpot.
• Stir gently after adding pasta to prevent sticking.
• Use a thick sauce to avoid watery results.

Variations

Turkey Spaghetti and Meatballs
Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.

Cheesy Spaghetti and Meatballs
Stir in shredded mozzarella during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Spicy Spaghetti and Meatballs
Add red pepper flakes or spicy marinara sauce for heat.

Vegetarian Version
Use plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth.

Extra Veggie Version
Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

Special Equipment Needed

• Crockpot or slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or spatula

Conclusion

Crockpot Spaghetti and Meatballs is a comforting, flavorful meal that combines traditional taste with effortless preparation. With tender meatballs, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining. Simple, satisfying, and dependable, this recipe is one you will return to again and again.