In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Break it apart with a spoon while cooking.
Drain excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
This quick step ensures better texture and flavor before transferring the meat to the crockpot.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker.
Add:
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Chopped onion
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Minced garlic
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Chopped bell pepper
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Diced tomatoes (with juices)
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Tomato sauce
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Beef broth
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Worcestershire sauce
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Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper
Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on:
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Low for 6–7 hours
or -
High for 3–4 hours
The vegetables will soften, and the flavors will blend beautifully into a rich, savory sauce.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
About 30–40 minutes before serving, stir in the elbow macaroni.
Cover and continue cooking until the pasta is tender.
Adding the pasta near the end prevents it from becoming overly soft.
Step 5: Add Cheese (Optional but Recommended)
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in shredded cheddar cheese for extra creaminess.
You can also sprinkle cheese on top, cover for a few minutes, and let it melt into a gooey layer.
🍽 Serving Suggestions