Slow Cooker Garlic Beef Pasta
A rich and comforting dish featuring tender beef, creamy garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This slow cooker recipe allows flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal choice for busy nights. Customize with seasonal veggies or spice levels to suit your taste.
Equipment
- 1 Slow Cooker (Crockpot) Medium-sized for this recipe.
- 1 Skillet For browning beef.
- 1 Measuring Cups/Spoons Ensures accurate portions of liquids and spices.
- 1 Wooden Spoon For stirring sauce and ingredients consistently.
- 1 Knife and cutting board For prepping vegetables and mincing garlic.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef or stew meat Lean ground beef or cubed stew meat works well.
- 8 oz Pasta penne, fusilli, etc. Cook al dente if adding before serving.
- 1 can Cream of mushroom soup Adds creaminess and depth.
- 1 cup Beef broth Enhances savory notes.
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream For a rich velvety sauce.
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Boosts aromatic complexity.
- 1 tsp Garlic powder Extra garlic flavor for enthusiasts.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning Adds herbs like oregano and basil.
- 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes Optional for a spicy kick.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated For garnish and added richness.
- 1 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing or enhancing flavor.
- Salt and pepper (To taste) Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Optional Seasonal vegetables Zucchini spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients :
- Dice vegetables (if using). Mince garlic and season beef with salt and pepper.
Brown Beef :
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add beef and cook until browned (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
Assemble in Slow Cooker :
- Add browned beef, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, minced garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cook :
- Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours , depending on your schedule.
Add Pasta :
- If using uncooked pasta, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If using cooked pasta, stir it in just before serving to avoid overcooking.
Finish Sauce :
- Stir in heavy cream during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a creamy texture.
Garnish and Serve :
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
-
- Customization : Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the pasta.
- Freezing : Freeze cooked beef and sauce separately from pasta to prevent sogginess. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
- Yes! Substitute with diced chicken breast or thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
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How can I make this dish gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free pasta and ensure cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free.
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What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the pasta.
-
Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes! Freeze cooked beef and sauce separately from pasta for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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How do I thicken the sauce?
- Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir into the sauce during cooking.
Tips & Tricks
- Flavor Enhancement : Toast garlic briefly before adding it to the slow cooker for a deeper aroma.
- Texture Contrast : Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese for a crispy topping.
- Wine Pairing : Pair with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine like Chardonnay to complement the dish.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish : Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for color and freshness.
- Serving Style : Serve in shallow bowls with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Beverage Pairings : Offer sparkling water with lemon or chilled dry sherry for non-alcoholic options.