5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef and Sausage Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, fuss-free dinner that feels like a warm hug, this 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef and Sausage Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. I absolutely love this because it takes very little prep, uses simple ingredients you probably already have, and leaves you with a rich, creamy pasta dish that my whole family goes crazy for. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

These five ingredients come together beautifully because the combination of ground meats creates richness, while the spaghetti and Alfredo sauces bind everything into a velvety, cheesy delight. When shopping, I always look for quality sausages and my favorite jar of spaghetti sauce, knowing it makes all the difference.

• Ground beef: I like using lean to medium-fat ground beef so the dish isn’t too greasy but still flavorful.
• Ground pork sausage: Adds a lovely punch of seasoning and moisture; spicy or mild works depending on your mood.
• Spaghetti sauce: I usually grab a classic marinara-style jar—Ragu is my go-to for that balanced flavor.
• Alfredo sauce: This brings creamy richness; jarred Alfredo works just fine here to keep things easy.
• Elbow macaroni noodles: These little pasta shapes are perfect for soaking up sauce and making each bite satisfying.

Variations

I’m all for adjusting recipes to make them your own, and this 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef and Sausage Pasta Recipe is no exception. Over time, I’ve played around with extra spices and swapped out noodles just to keep things interesting—and you should too!

• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms early in the cooking for extra texture and nutrition; my family enjoys the subtle sweetness.
• Different sausage: Try Italian sausage or even chicken sausage to change the flavor profile while keeping it mild.
• Gluten-free pasta: I once used gluten-free elbow macaroni for a friend, and it held up perfectly without losing taste.
• Spicy kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce before cooking adds just enough heat without overpowering.

How to Make 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef and Sausage Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Brown and Crumble Your Meats in the Slow Cooker

This is probably my favorite part because it’s so easy: just throw the raw ground beef and pork sausage right into the slow cooker. Take a wooden spoon and gently crumble them to break up the meat. Don’t worry about browning ahead—it will cook slow and low, soaking in all the flavors as it goes. I discovered this trick when I was short on time and still wanted that homemade feel.

Step 2: Add Sauces and Stir to Combine

Pour in the spaghetti sauce and Alfredo sauce over the meats and give everything a good stir so the sauces fully cover the meat. This mix is what makes your dish creamy and delicious without needing extra cheese or cream. It’s such a simple combo but tastes decadent — a happy accident I stumbled on one day craving comfort food.

Step 3: Let It Slow Cook, Low and Slow

Set your slow cooker for seven hours on low—or if you’re in a hurry, four hours on high. This slow simmer is the secret to tender, flavorful meat that melds beautifully with the sauces. If you’re home during cooking, take the wooden spoon and break up the meat again halfway through—this helps prevent clumps and ensures even cooking.

Step 4: Stir in the Pasta and Finish Cooking

Once your meat mixture has cooked and is tender, add the elbow macaroni noodles right into the slow cooker. Stir them well to coat with sauce—this ensures every noodle is covered and will cook evenly. Cover and cook for another 30 to 45 minutes on low, or 15 to 30 minutes on high, until the pasta is perfectly tender. This timing can vary a bit depending on your slow cooker and noodle brand, so check softness as you go.

How to Serve 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef and Sausage Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this pasta with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese is a must for me—it adds just the right salty punch without overpowering the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. Sometimes, I make a quick steamed broccoli side for a bit of texture and color—balanced and satisfying!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like serving this pasta in mini cast-iron skillets to keep it warm and add that rustic touch, especially when entertaining. You can even spoon it into small ramekins for an adorable single-serve presentation at family dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like giving it a good stir before refrigerating to ensure all the sauce stays incorporated and doesn’t separate.

Freezing

If you want to freeze it, I recommend doing so before adding the pasta—uncooked pasta doesn’t freeze well after cooking. Freeze the meat and sauce mixture in a separate container and add freshly cooked pasta when ready to eat. This keeps the texture much better.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, stirring often to avoid sticking. The microwave works too—just use short bursts and stir well between each to heat evenly.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Beef and Sausage Pasta Recipe quickly became my go-to for busy nights and casual weekend dinners. I love how effortlessly it comes together and still feels like a home-cooked meal made with love. If you want something hearty, creamy, and totally satisfying without needing to babysit the stove, give this recipe a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

Print