Crock-Pot Spaghetti
A hearty crock-pot spaghetti dish with savory ground beef, rich V-8 flavor, and a touch of brown sugar, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet until fully cooked.
- Add the browned beef, medium V-8, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to the crock-pot.
- Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low all day.
- During the last hour of cooking, add the spaghetti noodles.
- Stir the mixture only a couple of times during the last hour to prevent mushiness.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers when browning the ground beef. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning. Using homemade tomato sauce instead of V-8 can also enhance the dish's depth, similar to what you'd find in Beef Tenderloin Steaks With Gorgonzola.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crock-pot spaghetti with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try serving it with a slice of Tourquere Pie for dessert, creating a delightful balance of savory and sweet.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Spaghetti contains roughly 81 calories, with 4g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
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 use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti in this recipe?
Yes, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti as a substitute. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as these types may require less time to cook in the crock-pot.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms and lentils. You may also want to use vegetable broth instead of V-8 for added depth of flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just combine everything in the crock-pot and cook as directed when you're ready to serve. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
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).