7 Slow Cooker Pasta Recipes That Are Simple and Satiating

December 23, 2023

Courtesy of Haute and Healthy Living

When it comes to easy weeknight meals, you can’t beat pasta — toss it in a pot with boiling water and you have a hearty, satisfying dinner in minutes. But if you’re looking to level up those pasta dishes, bust out the crockpot. There are countless set-and-forget slow cooker pasta recipes that are just as satiating as they are simple to make.

The beauty of a crockpot is that you can often cook all the ingredients — the pasta, the veggies, and even the meat — at the same time and in the same vessel. So, not only does it cut down on time and effort, but it also saves you a few pots and pans to wash after the meal is over.

Whether you’re looking for plant-based dishes your whole family will love, or a tasty date night meal to impress your person, consider adding these slow cooker pasta recipes to your rotation.

1. Crockpot Veggie Lasagna

Courtesy of Pinch of Yum

Lasagna is the ultimate winter comfort food — and this particular recipe, which is vegetarian, happens to be pretty nutritious, too. The secret? A pinch of pesto to punch up the flavor. While the blogger used kale, you can feel free to swap in any other veggies you prefer — such as spinach, summer squash, zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots.

Try the recipe from Pinch of Yum.

2. Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Courtesy of Well Plated

Beef stroganoff typically gets its rich, creamy flavor and texture from sour cream and/or cream cheese — but this recipe uses Greek yogurt instead. High in protein and packed with a sneaky serving of vegetables (more specifically mushrooms), it works just as well for romantic dinners as it does casual family get-togethers.

You can also boost the fiber and protein content of the meal by following the blogger’s recommendation to use whole wheat egg noodles instead of regular ones.

Try the recipe from Well Plated.

3. Creamy Instant Pot Pasta

Courtesy of A Couple Cooks

If you’re a fan of vodka sauce, you’re bound to love this healthy take, which uses goat cheese instead of heavy cream to make the sauce creamy. Make sure to finish off the dish with a sprinkle of torn fresh basil — it makes all the difference in rounding out the flavors of this crave-worthy meal.

Note: You can make the recipe gluten-free by substituting red lentil, chickpea, or brown rice pasta.

Try the recipe from A Couple Cooks.

4. Slow Cooker Spanish Chicken and Chorizo Pasta

Courtesy of 100 Days of Real Food

This Mediterranean-inspired slow cooker pasta recipe feeds a crowd, making it the perfect dinner option for the holidays and other family gatherings. With chile peppers, cumin, cayenne pepper, and fire-roasted diced tomatoes, it’s a dish that definitely isn’t short on flavor — or spice.

Feel free to use whatever pasta shape or type you prefer, including whole-grain or gluten-free varieties. Don’t eat pork? Swap in chicken sausage instead.

Try the recipe from 100 Days of Real Food.

5. Crockpot Greek Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Tomato Orzo

Courtesy of Half Baked Harvest

With vibrant summer cherry tomatoes, hearty meatballs, and fresh spring herbs, this recipe is one you’re sure to enjoy on cold winter and balmy summer evenings alike.

You can use chicken, turkey, or pork meatballs for this recipe. Want to kick things up a notch? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

Try the recipe from Half Baked Harvest.

6. Lentil Bolognese

Courtesy of Haute and Healthy Living

Whether you’re vegan or just trying to incorporate more meatless meals into your diet, this plant-based bolognese recipe is rich and velvety thanks to the coconut milk. And it couldn’t possibly be easier to make, either: You can prep the ingredients in less than 10 minutes — then pour it all into the slow cooker and you’re done.

Have picky eaters in your household? This one’s kid-friendly — even the blogger’s toddler approves.

Try the recipe from Haute & Healthy Living.

7. Crockpot Tuscan Sausage and White Bean Ragu with Gnocchi

Courtesy of Half Baked Harvest

For this easy peasy recipe, you don’t even have to brown the sausage before putting it in the slow cooker. In fact, the blogger insists that adding it directly to the crockpot only elevates the recipe because the juices just infuse more flavor into the sauce. Tuscan kale and white beans add a slew of nutrients to the dish, while bay leaves, oregano, basil, and garlic lend a classic Italian-inspired taste.

Note: While you can technically use any variety of tomatoes, this recipe calls for San Marzanos — which are well worth seeking out for their tender texture, mild sweetness, and perfect level of acidity.

Try the recipe from Half Baked Harvest.