So good! We licked our plates clean for this one!

Slow Cooker Ground Beef Mostaccioli is a dish that's been cherished in our family for generations. This hearty and comforting pasta dish is perfect for those long, chilly days when you need something to warm your soul. The origins of mostaccioli hail from Italian immigrants who brought their beloved recipes to the Midwest, blending them beautifully with local flavors and traditions. Making this recipe in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together over hours, creating a delightful meal that's both easy and delicious. It's the kind of dish that reminds me of Sundays at Grandma's house, where the aroma of simmering sauce and bubbling cheese filled the air.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a slice of buttery garlic bread. The freshness of the salad provides a lovely contrast to the rich, meaty pasta, while the garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the flavorful sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of steamed green beans or a simple vegetable medley to add a pop of color and extra nutrition.

Servings: 6

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 (24-ounce) jar of marinara sauce
1 (15-ounce) can of diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups mostaccioli pasta, uncooked
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain the fat.

2. Add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet, and cook until the vegetables are tender.

3. Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to the slow cooker.

4. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

5. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.

6. After 4 hours, stir in the uncooked mostaccioli pasta. Ensure the pasta is well-covered with the sauce.

7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.

8. Cover and cook on low for an additional 1 hour, or until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Serve hot and enjoy!

For a different twist, you can substitute ground Italian sausage for the ground beef to add a bit of a spicy kick. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. Some folks like to add a touch of red pepper flakes for extra heat or a splash of red wine to deepen the flavors of the sauce. Feel free to use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting and making this recipe truly your own!