Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Beef and Cheese Pasta – Midwestern Comfort in a Bowl

 

In the heart of the Midwest—where open skies meet golden fields and home kitchens radiate warmth—comfort food is more than tradition. It’s connection. This Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Beef and Cheese Pasta is a love letter to those cozy, nostalgic meals that have gathered families around the dinner table for generations.

It’s a dish born out of simplicity, practicality, and flavor. Just five everyday ingredients come together in your slow cooker to create a rich, cheesy, deeply satisfying pasta bake that tastes like home. Whether you’re coming in from a long day or planning a lazy Sunday dinner, this set-it-and-forget-it recipe is pure mealtime magic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only 5 Ingredients – Minimal prep, maximum flavor

• Slow Cooker Friendly – Hands-off cooking for busy days

• Hearty & Filling – Packed with beef, cheese, and pasta

• Family-Approved – A hit with kids and adults alike

• Freezer-Friendly – Great for leftovers and meal prep

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

• 3 cups uncooked pasta (rotini or penne work best)

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours on high (or 5 to 6 hours on low)

• Total Time: ~3 hours

• Servings: 6

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Build the Base

In the slow cooker, add the browned beef, marinara sauce, uncooked pasta, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together to ensure the pasta is coated and evenly distributed.

Step 3: Cook It Low and Slow

Cover and cook on:

• Low for 5–6 hours
  OR

• High for 2.5–3.5 hours

Stir halfway through cooking if possible to prevent sticking and ensure even doneness.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

About 15–20 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover and let the cheese melt into gooey perfection.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Scoop into bowls, serve hot, and savor that Midwest magic!

What to Serve With It

This cheesy pasta pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette

• Warm crusty bread for dipping into the sauce

• A glass of red wine (Cabernet or Merlot work beautifully)

• Fruit cobbler or a slice of homemade pie for dessert

Tips & Variations

• Want more veggies? Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach during the last hour of cooking.

• More heat? Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage in place of ground beef.

• No mozzarella? Use cheddar or a blend of Italian cheeses.

• Make it creamy: Stir in ½ cup of cream cheese or sour cream for a richer texture.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Beef and Cheese Pasta is more than just an easy recipe — it’s a comforting reminder of everything we love about home-cooked meals. Simple ingredients. Big flavor. And a whole lot of heart.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or batch-cooking for the week ahead, this dish promises Midwestern comfort in every bite. Add it to your rotation and taste the tradition.