Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce (Printable Version)

Rich tomato sauce with ground beef, aromatics, and herbs slow-cooked to create deep, classic Italian-inspired flavor.

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# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1.5 pounds lean ground beef (93% or leaner)
02 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tablespoon jarred minced garlic)
04 - 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
05 - 1 can (14.5 oz) tomato sauce
06 - 1 tablespoon tomato paste
07 - 1 tablespoon Homemade Spaghetti Seasoning
08 - 2 tablespoons butter, added at the end

→ Optional Toppings/Serving Suggestions

09 - Fresh basil or parsley, to garnish
10 - Grated parmesan, to garnish
11 - Cooked pasta, for serving

# Steps:

01 - In a 6-quart or larger slow cooker, add uncooked ground beef, chopped onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and spaghetti seasoning.
02 - Mix gently to distribute seasoning and break up the beef slightly without overmixing. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
03 - Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter during the last 10-15 minutes of cook time until melted and well incorporated.
04 - Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if required. Spoon over your favorite pasta and garnish with grated parmesan or fresh herbs as desired.

# Notes:

01 - Refrigerate leftover sauce in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Store fully cooled sauce in portions in the freezer for up to 3 months.
02 - Reheat sauce on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally.
03 - Browning the ground beef beforehand is optional for a finely crumbled texture, and you can drain off extra grease.
04 - Use lean beef to avoid a greasy sauce.
05 - If the sauce is too runny, leave the lid slightly open during the last 30 minutes of cook time or add another tablespoon of tomato paste.