Name: Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti}
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey; 24 oz marinara sauce; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; Fresh basil (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Print Recipe·Leave a Review

The aroma of Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia, instantly whisking you back to family gatherings where laughter mingles with the delightful scent of bubbling cheese. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a cozy embrace in a bowl that promises to satisfy your cravings and delight your taste buds.

Imagine the first bite—a perfect balance of savory meat sauce, creamy cheese, and al dente pasta that dances on your palate. Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti} is ideal for those chilly evenings when you need comfort food but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, making even your most skeptical eaters ask for seconds.

Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti}

This incredible Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti} transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti}:

Spaghetti: Use regular spaghetti or whole wheat for a healthier option; both work wonderfully in this dish.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Choose lean ground beef for a richer flavor or turkey for a lighter alternative.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality marinara sauce adds depth; consider homemade for an extra kick!
Cream Cheese: This creamy goodness gives the dish its rich texture—don’t skip it!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The gooier, the better! Opt for whole milk mozzarella for maximum meltiness.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs elevates the flavor profile—go generous here!

For the Toppings:

Fresh Basil: Adds vibrant color and freshness; chop it up before sprinkling on top.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan enhances this classic comfort food beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti}:

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by browning your ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep things light.

Step 2: Mix with Marinara

In a large bowl, combine your cooked meat with marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Stir it well—this is where the magic begins!

Step 3: Prepare Creamy Mixture

In another bowl, blend cream cheese until smooth. Mix in half of your shredded mozzarella cheese to create a luscious creamy layer.

Step 4: Layer It Up

In your slow cooker, layer half of the uncooked spaghetti at the bottom. Top with half of the meat mixture and then half of the creamy cheese mixture. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low heat for about four hours or until the pasta is tender and fully cooked through. Don’t peek too often—let that slow cooker work its wonders!

Step 6: Serve with Style

Once done cooking, sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top and let it melt under the lid for about ten minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch!

You Must Know About Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti}

This showstopping Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti} delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti}, start by browning the ground beef in a pan first. Then, cook the pasta until it’s al dente while preparing your sauce. Layer everything in the slow cooker for maximum flavor infusion.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti} by adding veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can swap the ground beef for turkey or even use plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian twist. Don’t forget to experiment with different cheeses!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti} in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a microwave or on the stove until heated through, adding a splash of water or sauce if it seems dry.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti}

This professional-quality Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti} relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

When I first made this Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti} for my friends, they wolfed it down faster than I could say “seconds.” Their rave reviews still echo in my ears; it’s like they were auditioning for a food critic role right there!

FAQs

What is Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti}?

Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti, often referred to as Million Dollar Spaghetti, is a delicious and easy-to-make casserole. This dish combines layers of spaghetti, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses in a slow cooker. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting meal that is perfect for families or gatherings. The result is a satisfying, cheesy pasta dish that feels indulgent but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

How long does it take to make Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti}?

Preparing Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti takes about 15 minutes of hands-on time, followed by 4 to 6 hours of cooking on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. This makes it an ideal option for busy days when you want a hearty meal ready by dinner time. Just layer your ingredients in the slow cooker, set it on your desired cooking temperature, and let it do the work while you focus on other tasks.

Can I customize my Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti}?

Absolutely! One of the great things about Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti is its versatility. You can easily add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients. If you prefer meat, feel free to include ground beef or Italian sausage. Additionally, different types of cheese can be used to suit your taste—mozzarella, ricotta, or even cheddar can enhance the dish’s flavor profile.

What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti?

When serving Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti}, consider pairing it with a simple side salad for freshness and balance. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are also excellent choices for soaking up any leftover sauce. If you’re looking for something lighter, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans complement the richness of the pasta nicely and provide additional nutrition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti {Million Dollar Spaghetti} offers a delightful blend of convenience and flavor that makes it perfect for any occasion. With its rich layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you’re customizing it with extra ingredients or serving it alongside fresh sides, this recipe guarantees satisfaction and comfort with every bite. Enjoy making this easy yet indulgent meal!