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Creamy Crockpot Pasta Recipe Easy Slow Cooker Dinner for Busy Nights

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A creamy, comforting slow cooker pasta recipe that uses simple pantry staples and cooks pasta directly in the crockpot for a hands-off, delicious meal perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces dry pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%, or almond milk for lighter option)
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme blend)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: cooked shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, spinach

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease the crockpot insert with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Pour in chicken broth and milk. Stir in minced garlic, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add dry pasta directly into the crockpot, spreading evenly on top of the liquid without stirring.
  4. Cover and cook on low for about 3 to 3.5 hours. Check at 3 hours by gently stirring to test pasta tenderness.
  5. Once pasta is tender and most liquid absorbed, add softened cream cheese and freshly grated Parmesan. Stir gently until melted and creamy.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or Italian herbs. Add a splash of milk if sauce is too thick.
  7. Fold in any optional pre-cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh spinach. Let warm for about 5 minutes.
  8. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Lightly grease the crockpot insert to prevent sticking. Use low heat to avoid mushy pasta. Stir only after pasta is mostly cooked. Keep lid on during cooking to maintain heat. Check pasta early if using gluten-free or whole wheat pasta. Add optional proteins or vegetables near the end of cooking. Leftovers thicken; add milk when reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy crockpot pasta, slow cooker pasta, easy slow cooker dinner, creamy pasta recipe, crockpot dinner, comfort food, busy night meals

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