Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience? Look no further! With these 20 creamy slow cooker pasta recipes, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table with minimal effort. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to international-inspired dishes like Cajun shrimp linguine, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of slow cooker pasta, where the only thing that’s slow is the cooking time. Our recipes use a variety of ingredients, from rich cheeses to savory meats, to create creamy and indulgent dishes that are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re a busy professional or a stay-at-home parent, these slow cooker pasta recipes are perfect for any night of the week.
So go ahead, grab your slow cooker and let’s get started! In our next section, we’ll dive into our first 10 recipes, including a classic mac and cheese with bacon that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese with Bacon
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy, bacon-filled twist on classic macaroni and cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine diced bacon, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add cooked macaroni to the slow cooker and stir until well combined.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the macaroni is coated.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Slow Cooker Pasta
This rich and satisfying pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. With its creamy garlic sauce, melted Parmesan cheese, and al dente pasta, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Transfer the skillet contents to a slow cooker. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker. Mix until pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff with Egg Noodles
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting slow cooker dish, featuring tender beef and egg noodles smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beef strips, onion, garlic, mushrooms, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
4. Serve beef mixture over cooked egg noodles.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Pasta
A creamy and comforting slow cooker recipe that combines chicken, pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine chicken, fettuccine pasta, Alfredo sauce, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the pasta is well coated.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
- Stir in any accumulated liquid to ensure the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Enjoy your delicious and easy Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Pasta!
Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese
Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
A classic Italian-inspired dish made easy with the help of your slow cooker! This hearty spaghetti bolognese is perfect for a cozy night in or a busy day when you need a warm, comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Serve with the slow cooker bolognese sauce and grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup
Transform your favorite lasagna into a comforting soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This slow cooker recipe is an easy and delicious twist on the classic Italian dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup lasagna noodles, broken into pieces
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker with the crushed tomatoes, broken lasagna noodles, chicken broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Cheesy Taco Pasta
This comforting recipe combines the flavors of tacos with the ease of a slow cooker, creating a delicious and satisfying meal for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions, then set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine ground beef, onion, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and olive oil. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Mushroom and Spinach Pasta
Slow Cooker Mushroom and Spinach Pasta Recipe
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish packed with the earthy taste of mushrooms, spinach, and garlic, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Perfect for a busy day, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be served hot or cold.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine sliced mushrooms, minced garlic, olive oil, and chopped onion. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in thawed spinach, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir until coated with the mushroom-spinach sauce.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Penne
Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Penne Recipe
Summary: This hearty recipe combines the flavors of sausage, peppers, and penne pasta in a slow cooker, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the sliced peppers, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and add the penne pasta, marinara sauce, and dried oregano.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Pesto Chicken Pasta
Transform your pasta into a flavorful and creamy dish with the help of your slow cooker. This recipe combines the richness of pesto, juicy chicken, and al dente pasta for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together pesto sauce, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
4. Pour the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
5. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high.
Slow Cooker Three-Cheese Ravioli Bake
Slow Cooker Three-Cheese Ravioli Bake Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of three melty cheeses and tender ravioli in this comforting, hands-off casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package frozen ravioli
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook ravioli according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and melted butter (optional). Stir until smooth.
3. Add cooked ravioli, mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker. Mix well.
4. Cover and cook on Low for 3-4 hours or High for 1-2 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (Low) or 1-2 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this comforting and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This slow cooker delight combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and the creaminess of heavy cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, and dried basil to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for an additional 30 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the creamy tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Tortellini
This hearty recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a slow cooker, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Tender tortellini and savory sausage come together in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 ounces cheese-filled tortellini
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine sausage, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, olive oil, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add tortellini to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta: A Hearty One-Pot Meal
Transform your kitchen into an Italian haven with this easy-to-make Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan Pasta recipe! With tender chicken, flavorful pasta, and melted mozzarella cheese, this comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup uncooked pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken, marinara sauce, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cooked pasta, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Transform ordinary pasta into a rich and flavorful dish with this easy-to-make Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta recipe. This hearty meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup uncooked penne pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/2 cup cream
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine shrimp, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cream, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in cooked pasta, ensuring it’s well coated with the creamy sauce.
4. Cook on Low for 3-4 hours or High for 1-2 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (Low) or 1-2 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Spinach and Artichoke Pasta
Creamy pasta with the perfect blend of spinach and artichokes, cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine chicken broth, artichoke hearts, spinach, Parmesan cheese, and cream.
3. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker; stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1 hour (high)
Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Herb Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This slow cooker recipe requires minimal effort, but delivers maximum taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or rotini)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, combine butter, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, and parsley. Stir until the butter is melted and well combined.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Broccoli Cheddar Pasta
A creamy and comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g. penne, fusilli)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine broccoli, butter, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, diced tomatoes, and basil. Stir well.
3. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir gently.
4. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours, until the flavors have melded together and the pasta is well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low), 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe uses sun-dried tomatoes to add a burst of flavor and color to the sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta of your choice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow cooker, combine olive oil, onion, garlic, basil, oregano, diced tomatoes, and sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Add heavy cream and stir to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker and toss to coat with sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time:
– 2-3 hours on low
– 1-2 hours on high
Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your weeknight dinner with this easy and delicious slow cooker shrimp linguine recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz. linguine pasta
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the slow cooker, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, chicken broth, and olive oil.
3. Add the shrimp to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in cooked linguine pasta and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours (depending on slow cooker setting)
