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Slow Cooker Million Dollar Pasta

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A creamy, layered pasta casserole made in the slow cooker with seasoned beef, marinara, and a rich cheese filling that feeds a crowd without the fuss.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs lean ground beef
  • 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup ricotta
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 (24 oz) jars marinara sauce, divided
  • 1 (24 oz) jar filled with water
  • 1 (16 oz) box bowtie pasta (uncooked)
  • 2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Crumble into a large skillet and cook over medium heat until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain off excess grease and set the beef aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, ricotta, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and fully incorporated; set aside.
  3. Pour half a jar of marinara sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker and spread it to the edges.
  4. Sprinkle half the uncooked bowtie pasta evenly over the sauce. Pour the remaining half jar of marinara on top of that pasta layer.
  5. Fill the empty sauce jar with water. Pour half of this water evenly over the pasta and sauce layer.
  6. Scatter half of the cooked ground beef evenly over the pasta. Spoon the entire cream cheese mixture over the beef and spread it gently.
  7. Add the remaining pasta in an even layer. Pour the second jar of marinara sauce over that pasta.
  8. Gently pour the remaining half jar of water on top to help the pasta cook through. Finish by spreading the remaining beef across the top.
  9. Cover and cook on low for 2 hours and 30 minutes. Check the pasta; if it’s still firm, continue cooking in 30-minute increments until tender.
  10. When the pasta is fully cooked, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Cover and cook on low about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
  11. Use a large spoon to scoop portions that include all layers so each serving has sauce, pasta, beef, and the creamy center. Serve warm.

Notes

Let the dish sit for 10 minutes after cooking for easier serving. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours and store in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.simplefamilydishes.com/slow-cooker-million-dollar-pasta/