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4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Italian Tomato Pasta

A no-fuss, one-pot pasta dish that combines uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, and Italian dressing in the slow cooker for a comforting meal with minimal prep time.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Ingredients
  • 1 pound uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or ziti) Choose shapes that hold sauce.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 1 jar 24–26 oz marinara or plain tomato pasta sauce Use a good-quality jar for better flavor.
  • 1 cup bottled Italian salad dressing Use low-fat if you prefer less richness.
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth Broth adds depth; use water to keep it neutral.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Lightly spray the inside of a 4–6 quart slow cooker with nonstick spray or rub with a little oil.
  2. In a large bowl or directly in the slow cooker, whisk together the marinara, Italian dressing, and water or broth until smooth.
  3. Add the uncooked pasta and stir thoroughly to coat every piece in the sauce.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours, stirring once about halfway through.
  2. At about 2 hours, test a piece of pasta; it should be tender but still hold its shape.
  3. If the sauce is too thick or the pasta needs more time, add a splash of hot water or broth and continue cooking for 10-15 minutes.
Serving
  1. Serve hot with grated Parmesan and chopped fresh basil or parsley.

Notes

For vegetarian, use water or vegetable broth. For added protein, stir in browned sausage or cooked shredded chicken at the end. Store leftovers in airtight containers for 3-4 days.