Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce

Slow Cooker Spaghetti Sauce

Spaghetti sauce: Make this easy slow cooker marinara recipe in under 15 minutes prep. Simmers for hours for incredible flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 yellow onion
• 4 cloves garlic
• 2 28oz. cans crushed tomatoes
• 1 6oz. can tomato paste
• 1 tbsp dried basil
• 1.5 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions

 

• Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Place both in a 3 quart or larger slow cooker.
• Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and butter to the slow cooker. Stir everything together well.
• Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours.
• After cooking, stir well, then add salt to taste, starting with ½ tsp.

Video

Notes

– Use good quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor base.
– Don’t skip the butter and balsamic vinegar; they add a subtle richness and depth.
– Taste and adjust salt at the end; canned tomatoes can vary in sodium.
– This sauce freezes beautifully, so make a double batch!

Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

Keyword spaghetti sauce

The technique that makes it

The key to creating a rich and flavorful spaghetti sauce in a slow cooker lies in the layering of flavors and the slow cooking process. The initial sautéing of the yellow onion and garlic helps to release their essential oils and sugars, enhancing the overall flavor profile. When combined with the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, this creates a robust base. The addition of dried herbs like basil and oregano, along with brown sugar and balsamic vinegar, balances acidity and adds depth. Slow cooking allows these ingredients to meld together, creating a harmonious sauce that develops complexity over time. The use of butter at the end adds a silky texture and richness, making the sauce more luxurious.

Troubleshooting

• Too acidic: If the sauce tastes too acidic, add a little more brown sugar or a pinch of baking soda to neutralize the acidity.
• Too watery: If your sauce is too thin, uncover the slow cooker and cook on high for the last 30 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.
• Not flavorful enough: If the sauce lacks depth, consider adding more herbs or a splash of red wine to enhance the flavor.
• Overly salty: If the sauce is too salty, add a peeled potato to absorb some of the saltiness while it cooks for about 20 minutes, then remove the potato.

Substitutions

• Yellow onion: Substitute with shallots for a milder, sweeter flavor that complements the sauce.
• Brown sugar: Use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener to balance acidity.
• Balsamic vinegar: Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used for a similar tangy flavor.
• Butter: Olive oil can be substituted for a lighter, vegan-friendly option while still providing richness.

Pro tips

• Use good quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor base.
• Don’t skip the butter and balsamic vinegar; they add a subtle richness and depth.
• Taste and adjust salt at the end; canned tomatoes can vary in sodium.
• This sauce freezes beautifully, so make a double batch!

Enjoy this incredibly easy and flavorful slow cooker spaghetti sauce on your favorite pasta, or use it as a base for other dishes.

Frequently asked questions

More from Pasta Sauces →