The Ultimate Slow Cooker Pasta Recipes

The Ultimate Slow Cooker Pasta Recipes

It is the perfect time to prepare one of the most beloved comfort foods—pasta! But this year, we’re putting a twist on the traditional stovetop methods and taking things slow. That’s right, we’re talking about slow cooker pasta recipes that allow you to prepare delicious, hearty meals with minimal effort. Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for an easy dinner option, slow cookers can transform your pasta game.

To make things even more fun, we’re featuring some of our favorite slow cookers from the Toastmaster, TRU, and Disney Nightmare Before Christmas collections. These slow cookers not only make cooking easier, but they also add a bit of fun and flair to your kitchen—perfect for fall gatherings!

Why Cook Pasta in a Slow Cooker?

Using a slow cooker for pasta is a game-changer. It allows you to prep everything in one pot and walk away while your meal cooks itself. Slow cookers are perfect for pasta dishes that need a little extra simmering time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, they make clean-up a breeze!

Let’s dive into some amazing slow cooker pasta recipes to help you be the dinner hero! But before we do, don't forget to check out our whole lineup of slow cookers, there is one for every home and every style! 

1. Classic Spaghetti & Meatballs

A timeless favorite, this Classic Spaghetti & Meatballs recipe will have you rethinking the traditional way to prepare this dish. Using the Toastmaster 7 Quart Digital Slow Cooker, you can easily cook the meatballs and sauce all day, and toss in the spaghetti right before serving.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 lb spaghetti (uncooked)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Form into small meatballs.
2. Add the meatballs and marinara sauce to the Toastmaster Slow Cooker.
3. Cook on low for 5-6 hours.
4. About 30-45 minutes before serving, add the uncooked spaghetti to the slow cooker and stir to ensure it’s covered in sauce.
5. Continue cooking until the pasta is tender.
6. Serve with fresh Parmesan and basil on top.

2. Creamy Alfredo Tortellini

For a rich and indulgent dish, this Creamy Alfredo Tortellini recipe is perfect for fall. The TRU 6 Quart Slow Cooker is ideal for preparing this creamy, cheesy delight that will impress any crowd.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cheese tortellini (uncooked)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups spinach (optional)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the tortellini, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes to the TRU Slow Cooker.
2. Cook on low for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.
3. About 15 minutes before serving, add the spinach and stir until wilted.
4. Serve with extra Parmesan on top and enjoy a creamy, cheesy pasta dish!

3. Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Celebrate fall flavors with this unique twist on a classic—Pumpkin Mac and Cheese! This comforting dish is perfect for fall and pairs beautifully with the spooky vibe of the Nightmare Before Christmas Slow Cooker.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni (uncooked)
• 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the macaroni, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, pumpkin puree, milk, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to the Nightmare Before Christmas Slow Cooker.
2. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
3. Once the pasta is tender, stir well and serve with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top.
4. This creamy, savory dish is sure to be a hit at any fall gathering!

4. Spicy Sausage Rigatoni

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, this Spicy Sausage Rigatoni is the perfect dish to add some heat to your National Pasta Day celebration. The Toastmaster 7 Quart Digital Slow Cooker does all the work for you, ensuring the flavors meld together perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb rigatoni pasta (uncooked)
• 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild, sliced)
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Instructions:

1. Add the sausage, crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes to the Toastmaster Slow Cooker.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours.
3. About 30-45 minutes before serving, add the uncooked rigatoni and stir.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded mozzarella and serve immediately with extra cheese and fresh basil.

5. Yellowstone Ranch-Style Beef Stroganoff

For a heartier pasta dish with a western flair, try this Yellowstone Ranch-Style Beef Stroganoff made in the Yellowstone 7-quart Slow Cooker. It’s perfect for cozy fall nights when you’re craving something filling and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb egg noodles (uncooked)
• 1 lb beef stew meat
• 1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add the beef stew meat, mushrooms, onion, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth to the Yellowstone Slow Cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-7 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked egg noodles and sour cream.
4. Once the noodles are tender, serve with fresh parsley on top for a hearty, ranch-style dinner!

Conclusion: Slow Cooker Pasta for Every Occasion

National Pasta Day is the perfect excuse to break out your slow cooker and create some easy, delicious meals that your whole family will love. Whether you’re in the mood for classic spaghetti, something creamy and rich like Alfredo tortellini, or a fall-inspired dish like pumpkin mac and cheese, the slow cooker makes everything easier. Plus, with fun designs like the Nightmare Before Christmas and Yellowstone slow cookers, you can add a little extra flair to your kitchen while you cook up a storm.

Celebrate National Pasta Day in style with these recipes and your favorite slow cooker from Select Brands! Trust us—once you try these slow cooker pasta dishes, they’ll become a staple in your fall recipe lineup. Happy cooking!