Courthouse Crock-Pot Spaghetti Sauce
A hearty and flavorful spaghetti sauce slow-cooked to perfection, blending ground beef, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Its rich, savory profile makes it perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a comforting meal with deep, aromatic flavors that develop slowly over hours.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a crock-pot, combine all ingredients.
- Stir thoroughly to mix well.
- Cook on low for 10 to 12 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground chuck and onions in a skillet before adding them to the crock-pot. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or use crushed tomatoes instead of stewed tomatoes for a smoother sauce. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the sauce a little heat. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be added towards the end for a fresh taste.
Serving Suggestions
This spaghetti sauce pairs beautifully with Hot Garlic Bread for a complete meal. Serve over your favorite pasta and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A side of Italian Salad Dressing drizzled over a mixed greens salad complements the dish nicely, adding a refreshing crunch. Consider pairing it with Supreme Pasta Salad for a hearty Italian-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, place the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Courthouse Crock-Pot Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 479 calories, with 25g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (185% of the Daily Value), and calcium (143% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1321mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce vegan?
Yes, you can easily make a vegan version of this spaghetti sauce by omitting the ground chuck and using lentils or mushrooms as a substitute for a meaty texture. You may also want to add some soy sauce or vegan Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too watery?
If your sauce turns out too watery, you can thicken it by letting it cook longer uncovered, or by stirring in a tablespoon of tomato paste or cornstarch mixed with water. This will help absorb excess liquid and create a richer consistency.
What other ingredients can I add to enhance the flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by incorporating diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. A splash of red wine can also deepen the flavor profile. For a touch of sweetness, consider adding a teaspoon of sugar or grated carrots to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).