4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Italian Tomato Pasta
If you’re craving a simple slow cooker pasta recipe that delivers big comfort with minimal effort, this Slow Cooker Italian Tomato Pasta is the answer. Made with store-bought Italian dressing, marinara sauce, and uncooked pasta, this cozy meal comes together with just 4 pantry-friendly ingredients and almost no prep time.
This is one of those dump-and-go slow cooker dinners that quietly cooks itself while you handle your busy day. By dinnertime, you’re rewarded with tender pasta coated in a rich, tangy, herb-packed tomato sauce that tastes like it simmered all afternoon. It’s the kind of budget-friendly comfort food that feels nostalgic, satisfying, and perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a crowd.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pasta:
Only 4 ingredients no chopping, no browning, no stress
Hands-off cooking perfect for busy families and workdays
Pantry staple recipe uses items you likely already have
Customizable add protein, veggies, or cheese easily
Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing mild, familiar flavors
Ingredients:
1 pound (16 oz) uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or ziti)
1 jar (24–26 oz) marinara or plain tomato pasta sauce
1 cup bottled Italian salad dressing
2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
Directions:
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick spray or a little oil.
In a bowl or directly in the slow cooker, whisk together the marinara sauce, Italian dressing, and water or broth until smooth.
Add the uncooked pasta and stir until the noodles are mostly submerged and evenly coated.
Cover and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours, stirring once halfway through if possible.
Check for doneness around the 2-hour mark. Pasta should be tender but not mushy.
If needed, stir in a splash of hot water or broth and cook an additional 10–15 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, or dried Italian herbs if desired.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if available.
Serving Suggestions:
This slow cooker Italian pasta pairs perfectly with:
A crisp green salad with Italian dressing
Garlic bread or warm breadsticks
Roasted broccoli, green beans, or zucchini
It’s also great for potlucks, church suppers, or easy family dinners where everyone helps themselves straight from the slow cooker.
Easy Variations & Tips:
Add protein: Stir in cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded rotisserie chicken during the last 15–20 minutes.
Make it cheesy: Add shredded mozzarella or a few spoonfuls of cream cheese at the end for a creamy finish.
Sneak in veggies: Frozen peas or finely chopped spinach blend right into the sauce.
Lighten it up: Use light Italian dressing and water instead of broth.
Add heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes or zesty Italian dressing adds a spicy kick.
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Easy 4-ingredient slow cooker Italian tomato pasta made with pantry staples. A cozy, dump-and-go dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
