This easy slow cooker spaghetti sauce is perfect for busy days! Just toss in your tomatoes, veggies, and herbs, then let it simmer all day.
The smell alone will make your kitchen feel like an Italian trattoria! I love serving it over pasta with a sprinkle of cheese—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crushed Tomatoes: These are the base of your sauce and provide a rich flavor. If you can’t find crushed tomatoes, you can use whole tomatoes and blend them slightly or even diced tomatoes.
Tomato Paste: This thickens the sauce and adds depth. If you’re out of tomato paste, use a little less crushed tomatoes instead, but keep an eye on the consistency. You could also use tomato sauce, but you’ll need to adjust cooking time.
Onion and Garlic: Essential for flavor! Sweet onions work well, and feel free to use less garlic if you’re not a fan. For a milder taste, sauté the onion and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker.
Herbs: Dried herbs are great, but if you have fresh ones, feel free to use those as they tend to have a brighter flavor. Just remember, fresh herbs usually require more quantity compared to dried.
Olive Oil: Adds richness. If you want a lighter option, you can use vegetable oil or omit it altogether, but a little oil helps the flavors meld nicely.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor in My Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce?
The key to a deep, flavorful sauce is in the preparation of ingredients. Start by finely chopping your onions and garlic to release their flavors. If you can, sauté them in a pan with a bit of olive oil first. This will enhance their sweetness.
- Mix everything in the slow cooker, making sure to combine thoroughly. This ensures even flavor distribution.
- Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours—it allows sauces to develop a deeper flavor. If you’re in a rush, you can set it on high for 3 to 4 hours, but the low method is preferred!
- Before serving, taste the sauce. Adding a pinch of salt or sugar can dramatically enhance the final flavor.
Easy Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sauce:
- 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 teaspoons sugar (to balance acidity)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy spaghetti sauce takes about 15 minutes to prep and then simmers quietly in the slow cooker for 6 to 8 hours. Perfect for throwing together in the morning and coming home to a delicious aroma!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Start by placing the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper (if you’re using it) into the slow cooker. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
2. Add the Herbs and Seasonings:
Next, add the dried basil, oregano, thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, sugar, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
3. Incorporate the Olive Oil:
Pour in the olive oil and mix everything until it’s well blended. The olive oil will enrich the sauce, making it taste great!
4. Slow Cook the Sauce:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. If you can, stir it occasionally to help the flavors meld together.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
About 15 minutes before you plan to serve, taste the sauce. If it needs something extra, feel free to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a dash of sugar to enhance the flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the sauce is ready, serve it hot over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta. Don’t forget to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added touch of deliciousness. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Yes, you can! If using fresh tomatoes, you’ll need about 10-12 medium-sized tomatoes. Core and chop them, then blend slightly before adding to the slow cooker. Fresh tomatoes may require a longer cooking time to break down.
Can I Freeze Leftover Spaghetti Sauce?
Absolutely! Allow the sauce to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop.
How Do I Make This Sauce Spicier?
To add some heat, simply increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the recipe. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or sauté some spicy Italian sausage in the beginning for an extra kick!
What Can I Serve with This Sauce Besides Pasta?
This spaghetti sauce is versatile! It pairs well with zoodles (zucchini noodles), polenta, or you can use it as a filling for lasagna or stuffed peppers. It’s also great for topping pizzas or bruschetta!
