Slow Cooker Garlic Beef Pasta

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Transform your weeknight dinners with this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Garlic Beef Pasta recipe. Tender beef simmered in a rich garlic and herb sauce, combined with pasta, creates a comforting and hearty meal that the whole family will love. Easy to prep and packed with flavor, it's the ultimate dish for busy days.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-10-27T11:52:00.288Z

This Slow Cooker Garlic Beef Pasta is perfect for busy weeknights when time is short, but you still want to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal. The combination of tender beef and flavorful garlic sauce over pasta is sure to become a family favorite.

A Flavor Explosion

This Slow Cooker Garlic Beef Pasta is a true celebration of flavors. The beef stew meat is slow-cooked to perfection, absorbing the richness of the garlic, onion, and herbs. Each bite offers a delightful medley of tastes, making your taste buds dance with joy. The aromatic blend of oregano and basil adds layers of depth that transform simple ingredients into a gourmet experience right at home.

The diced tomatoes bring a vibrant acidity that cuts through the richness of the beef and garlic, creating a harmonious balance. This comforting dish not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart after a long day, reminding you of cherished family meals. With every forkful, you’ll understand why this recipe has quickly become a favorite for so many!

Perfect for Busy Nights

The beauty of this Slow Cooker Garlic Beef Pasta lies in its simplicity and convenience. With a prep time of just a few minutes, it allows you to set it and forget it, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. As you go about your day, the slow cooker works its magic, ensuring that you come home to a deliciously scented kitchen and a meal that's ready to serve.

Not only does this dish save you time, but it also minimizes cleanup. Most of the cooking happens in one pot, making it easier to enjoy a hearty family meal without the hassle of multiple pans and dishes. Just cook, combine, and serve!

Customizable and Versatile

One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its versatility. While the base ingredients are perfectly balanced, you can easily customize the dish to suit your family's preferences. Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. You can also swap the pasta type based on what you have on hand; penne, fusilli, or even whole grain pasta can work beautifully in this dish.

Additionally, if you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or using spicy Italian sausage in place of the beef. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish your own while still enjoying the comforting essence of garlic and beef.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1.5 lbs beef stew meat
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz pasta of your choice

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Beef

In the slow cooker, combine the beef stew meat, minced garlic, chopped onion, diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the beef is tender.

Cook the Pasta

About 15 minutes before serving, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Combine

Once the beef is cooked, stir in the cooked pasta to the slow cooker until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers from your Slow Cooker Garlic Beef Pasta can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld over time, making it even tastier the next day. When reheating, you can use a microwave or a stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to maintain the sauce's consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. This dish freezes beautifully, retaining the flavor and texture once thawed and reheated. Just remember to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Slow Cooker Garlic Beef Pasta experience, consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad. A light salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta and beef, ensuring a balanced meal that satisfies all palate preferences.

Another great pairing is grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top just before serving. This adds a creamy, salty bite that complements the garlic and meat, enhancing the overall flavor profile. A glass of red wine can also be a perfect accompaniment, transforming an ordinary dinner into a special occasion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken or pork, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.