Crockpot Cheesy Pasta with Sausage
Crockpot Cheesy Pasta with Sausage is a rich, creamy, and hands-off comfort food recipe perfect for busy nights. With hearty sausage, tender pasta, and plenty of melty cheese, it’s a slow-cooked family favorite that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients List
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 oz) jar pasta or marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups chicken broth
8 oz uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream or milk
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and onion, cooking until sausage is browned. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
Transfer sausage mixture to the crockpot. Stir in pasta sauce, broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Add uncooked pasta and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours, or until pasta is tender.
Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and heavy cream. Cover and cook on low for 10–15 more minutes until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings
Serves 4–6
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 480
Carbs: 30g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 28g
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Pairings/Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread, green salad, or steamed vegetables. A crisp white wine or sparkling water complements the cheesy richness.
Seasonal Relevance
Great for cozy fall and winter nights or lazy weekends. Ideal for make-ahead meals or entertaining with minimal prep.
Conclusion
Crockpot Cheesy Pasta with Sausage is a creamy, satisfying, and low-effort dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With bold flavors and gooey cheese, this one-pot meal is perfect for weeknight comfort and weekend ease.
Crockpot Cheesy Pasta with Sausage
4–6
servings10
minutes3
hours480
kcalA creamy, cheesy pasta with sausage made effortlessly in the crockpot. Hearty, flavorful, and perfect for easy family dinners.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24 oz) jar pasta or marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 cups chicken broth
8 oz uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup heavy cream or milk
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and onion, cooking until sausage is browned. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Transfer sausage mixture to the crockpot. Stir in pasta sauce, broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Add uncooked pasta and stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours, or until pasta is tender.
- Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and heavy cream. Cover and cook on low for 10–15 more minutes until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use spicy or mild sausage based on your preference.
For extra creaminess, stir in more cheese before serving.
Check pasta doneness early to avoid overcooking in the crockpot.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use ground beef instead of sausage?
Yes, ground beef or turkey works well if you prefer a milder option.
Q2: Will gluten-free pasta work in the crockpot?
Yes, but check earlier for doneness—gluten-free pasta can overcook quickly.
Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook and refrigerate, then reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.
