When you’re juggling a busy schedule but still want to serve a hearty, nutritious meal, ground beef crock pot recipes are your go-to solution. These dishes are simple, requiring minimal prep time, yet they deliver rich flavors that the whole family will enjoy. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting dinner that cooks itself while you focus on other things.
Ready to discover some delicious options? Let’s get started!
Steps
- Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, adding diced onions and peppers until the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- In the slow cooker, mix the browned beef mixture with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, cream cheese, garlic, dried basil, chili powder, paprika, and one cup of shredded cheese. Stir well to combine all ingredients and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your slow cooker’s settings.
- About 30 minutes before the casserole is finished, add uncooked pasta to the slow cooker and sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese on top. Cover again and continue cooking until the pasta is tender.
- Once the cheese has melted and the pasta is cooked to your liking, serve the casserole hot. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, green onions, tomatoes, or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ cup red pepper, diced
- 2-3 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 ½ teaspoons dried basil
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 3 tablespoons cream cheese
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
- 2 cups uncooked elbow pasta (or any short-cut pasta)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Nutritional Values
Calories: 3160kcal | Carbohydrates: 240g | Protein: 184g | Fat: 160g | Saturated Fat: 72g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 48g | Trans Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 560mg | Sodium: 4272mg | Potassium: 3088mg | Fiber: 16g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 7040IU | Vitamin C: 104mg | Calcium: 1912mg | Iron: 16mg
FAQ
- Can I use frozen ground beef for this recipe?
- It’s not recommended to use frozen ground beef directly in the slow cooker. It’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting before cooking.
- Do I need to cook the pasta before adding it to the slow cooker?
- No need to pre-cook the pasta. It will cook along with the other ingredients in the slow cooker, soaking up the delicious flavors of the sauce.
- Can I modify the seasonings to suit my taste?
- Absolutely! You can adjust the herbs, spices, salt, and pepper to match your personal preferences. Consider adding dill, oregano, or extra basil for a unique twist.
- Is it possible to use a different protein instead of ground beef?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef if you prefer a lighter option. It still tastes delicious in this recipe.
- How should I store leftovers from this casserole?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, place the cooked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
Tips
- Brown the Beef Thoroughly: Ensure you brown the ground beef well before adding it to the slow cooker. This step enhances the flavor and helps remove excess fat, making the casserole more delicious.
- Let the Casserole Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This pause helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.
- Prepare Ingredients Ahead: If you’re short on time, assemble the casserole ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, bring the insert to room temperature and start cooking for a hassle-free meal preparation.
- Customize and Substitute: Feel free to use alternatives like ground turkey instead of beef or substitute mozzarella for cheddar cheese. You can also sneak in extra veggies like shredded zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker (Crock-Pot)
- Skillet (for browning ground beef)
- Spatula or cooking spoon (for mixing and serving)
