crockpot pasta sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best crockpot pasta sauce recipe

I’ve been making this crockpot pasta sauce recipe for years, and it’s still a favorite in my household. My kids love it because it’s a great way to get them to eat more vegetables, and I love it because it’s so easy to make.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s a slow cooker recipe, which means you can just throw all the ingredients in the crockpot in the morning and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it always turns out perfectly.

The flavors are rich and deep, and the sauce is nice and thick. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

I like to serve it over pasta, but you can also use it as a dipping sauce for bread or as a topping for pizza. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s very healthy.

It’s made with fresh vegetables and lean meat, so you can feel good about what you’re serving your family. Plus, it’s easy to customize to your tastes by adding different spices or herbs.

I like to add a little bit of red pepper flakes for some heat, but you can also add some dried basil or oregano for extra flavor. This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I know your family will love it just as much as mine does.

Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce

4.7 from 1994 votes

This rich and flavorful crockpot pasta sauce simmers low and slow, allowing the tomatoes and herbs to meld into a deeply savory sauce. It requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for a busy day.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time6 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time6 hours 15 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Sauce

2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4Transfer the cooked onion and garlic to the slow cooker.
5Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, sugar, and water.
6Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
7Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set to low heat.
8Cook for 6 to 8 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
9The sauce will thicken and darken in color as it simmers.
10After cooking, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
11The sauce should be thick and rich, with a deep red color.
12Serve immediately over hot pasta or let cool and store in the refrigerator.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker (crockpot)
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring spoons
Measuring cups
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 120 kcal🧈Total Fat: 4g💛Saturated Fat: 0.5g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 580mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

For a chunkier sauce, use whole peeled tomatoes and crush them by hand before adding to the slow cooker. This sauce freezes well for up to three months.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce Works

This crockpot pasta sauce recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for company.

My family loves it because it’s so easy to make and tastes amazing every time.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it makes a big batch of sauce that you can use all week long – just store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Marinara Sauce

1. What type of pasta is best for this crockpot pasta sauce recipe?

I like to use penne or rigatoni because they have big holes that the sauce can cling to. However, you can use any type of pasta you like.

2. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if you prefer. Just be sure to drain the liquid from the canned tomatoes before adding them to the crockpot.

3. How long does this crockpot pasta sauce recipe take to make?

This recipe is perfect for busy families because it only takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then cooks all day while you’re away.

4. Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Yes, you can customize this recipe to your tastes by adding different spices or herbs. Some ideas include adding some dried oregano or basil for extra flavor, or using different types of meat such as ground beef or sausage.

5. Can I store this crockpot pasta sauce recipe in the fridge or freezer?

Yes, you can store this recipe in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

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