There is something mighty comforting about a slow cooker supper that asks so little and gives back so much, and this 5-ingredient Fourth of July tortiglioni is just that kind of dish. Using raw dry pasta right in the crock pot keeps things easy for busy summer holidays, when folks would rather be outside visiting on the porch or watching fireworks than standing over the stove. The result is a hearty, saucy pasta bake-style meal with tender noodles and plenty of family-table appeal, simple enough for a weeknight and festive enough for a casual holiday gathering.
Serve this tortiglioni with a crisp green salad, buttered green beans, or a platter of sliced tomatoes and cucumbers to balance the richness. Warm garlic bread or a basket of soft dinner rolls goes especially well for catching every bit of sauce, and if you are feeding a crowd, a bowl of fresh watermelon or a tray of red, white, and blue fruit on the side makes it feel right at home on the Fourth of July table.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Fourth of July Tortiglioni
Servings: 6
Ingredients
1 pound raw dry tortiglioni pasta
1 pound ground beef
1 jar (24 ounces) pasta sauce
3 cups water
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Lightly grease the slow cooker, then add the raw dry tortiglioni, cooked ground beef, pasta sauce, and water. Stir well so the pasta is evenly coated and submerged as much as possible.
3. Cover and cook on low for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours, stirring once or twice if your schedule allows, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, cover again, and cook for 10 to 15 minutes more, just until the cheese is melted.
5. Spoon into bowls or onto plates and serve hot.
Variations & Tips
Make It Creamier: Stir in a few spoonfuls of cream cheese or ricotta at the end if you want a softer, richer sauce. That little touch gives the pasta a more casserole-like finish.
Add Some Color: A handful of chopped parsley or basil scattered over the top before serving brightens the whole dish and gives it a fresh summer look, especially for a holiday table.
Use Italian Sausage: Swap the ground beef for browned Italian sausage if your family likes a little extra seasoning. It brings a fuller flavor without adding extra work.
Watch the Cooking Time: Slow cookers can vary, and dry pasta can go from just right to too soft before long, so start checking for tenderness on the early side. If the mixture looks dry before the pasta is done, add a small splash of hot water.