This 4-ingredient slow cooker campanelle is the kind of back-to-school dinner that saves the day when the afternoon gets busy and everyone is hungry at a different time. Using raw dry pasta right in the slow cooker keeps prep wonderfully simple, and the finished dish turns out creamy, cozy, and family-friendly with very little hands-on work. It is an easy weeknight idea for those nights when you want something warm and filling without standing over the stove.
Serve this pasta with a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, garlic bread, or a plate of fresh fruit for an easy family supper. If you want to stretch the meal a bit further, roasted carrots or green beans fit right in, and a sprinkle of extra cheese at the table makes it feel just a little more special.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Back to School Campanelle
Servings: 6
Ingredients
12 ounces raw dry campanelle pasta
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
1. Lightly coat the inside of the slow cooker with nonstick spray if desired for easier cleanup. Add the raw dry campanelle pasta to the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Pour the marinara sauce and chicken broth over the pasta. Stir well so the pasta is evenly coated and mostly submerged in the liquid.
3. Cover and cook on low for 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours, stirring once or twice if your schedule allows, until the pasta is tender. Cooking time can vary by slow cooker, so start checking early to prevent overcooking.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top, cover again, and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts. Gently stir before serving.
5. Spoon the pasta into bowls and serve hot.
Variations & Tips
Make it extra cheesy: Stir in a little grated Parmesan along with the mozzarella if your family likes a richer, cheesier finish. It adds a nice savory flavor without making the recipe more complicated.
Add a protein: If you want a heartier meal, stir in cooked shredded chicken or browned Italian sausage near the end of cooking. That is a helpful trick when you need this dish to stretch for bigger appetites.
Watch the liquid: Different pasta brands and slow cookers can cook a bit differently, so keep an eye on the texture the first time you make it. If the pasta seems dry before it is tender, add a small splash of broth; if it looks too loose at the end, let it sit uncovered for a few minutes before serving.
Kid-friendly serving idea: Serve this with little bowls of toppings like extra mozzarella or a sprinkle of Parmesan so everyone can finish their own bowl the way they like it. That small touch can make dinner feel more fun on a busy school night.