This Easy Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta! This comforting dish features tender beef simmered in a creamy sauce and served over pasta, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a hearty and delicious meal without the fuss!
With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this beef pasta is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Easy Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta combines tender beef, creamy sauce, and your choice of pasta for a satisfying meal. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and delicious. It’s perfect for sharing with family or friends!
Exciting Story: I first made this Easy Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta during a chilly fall evening when I wanted something hearty and comforting for dinner. The idea of letting the slow cooker do the work while I enjoyed some downtime sounded perfect. As I sautéed the beef and mixed in the ingredients, the warm aroma filled my kitchen, making everyone eager for dinner.
When it was time to serve, the beef was so tender and the sauce so creamy that it was hard to resist! Everyone loved it, and it quickly became a family favorite. Now, this dish is a go-to recipe for busy days and cozy nights alike, bringing warmth and satisfaction to our table.
Why This Easy Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta is a Must-Try
- Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of beef and creamy sauce creates a filling meal.
- Effortless Cooking: Simply toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
- Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by both kids and adults, making it perfect for any meal.
How to Make Easy Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the beef stew meat (or ground beef) until browned on all sides. If using ground beef, drain any excess fat. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, heavy cream, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Once the beef is tender, stir in the cooked pasta until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
Serve the creamy beef pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Easy Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta!
Tips For Easy Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta
- For added flavor, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the slow cooker.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor if you like.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free meal.
Make a Healthier Version:
- Use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat sour cream for a lighter sauce.
- Increase the amount of vegetables to boost nutrition.
Closing: And there you have it! This Easy Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta is a comforting and delicious meal that will satisfy any appetite. Don’t forget to let us know how your dish turns out, and check out some of our other delightful recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, it can be made a day ahead; just store it in the refrigerator.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy beef pasta for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce may be less rich.
How do I know when the beef is done?
The beef should be tender and easily shredded with a fork.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! Any short pasta works well in this dish.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Let it simmer longer in the slow cooker or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
You can cook it on the stovetop in a covered pot on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Can I add more spices?
Feel free to add red pepper flakes or extra Italian seasoning for more flavor!
What’s the best way to serve this dish?
Serve it hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and extra cheese on top.
Can I add cheese to the sauce?
Yes, adding shredded cheese to the sauce before serving can make it even creamier!
How do I achieve the best flavor?
Use quality beef and fresh herbs for the best results.
Easy Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta
Course: All Recipes, Casserole, Dinner Recipe, Slow Cooker, Weight watchers4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
1 lb beef stew meat (or ground beef)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz pasta (penne or rotini works well)
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Directions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the beef stew meat (or ground beef) until browned on all sides. If using ground beef, drain any excess fat. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, heavy cream, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Once the beef is tender, stir in the cooked pasta until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve the creamy beef pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Easy Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Pasta!
