Easy 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Tortiglioni

Looking for an easy slow cooker pasta recipe that’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for busy weeknights? This 5-ingredient slow cooker tortiglioni is your new go-to comfort food. Made with simple pantry staples like pasta, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese, this budget-friendly crockpot pasta dinner delivers rich flavor with almost no effort.

Just toss everything into your slow cooker before work, and come home to a warm, hearty pasta dish with a golden, bubbly cheese topping. It’s the perfect family-friendly dinner recipe that feels like a cozy homemade meal without the stress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only 5 simple ingredients budget-friendly and easy to find
• Hands-off cooking perfect for busy schedules
• Creamy and cheesy texture ultimate comfort food
• Great for families kid-approved and filling
• Customizable add meat or extra veggies easily

Ingredients

• 12 oz tortiglioni pasta (or any ridged pasta like rigatoni)
• 24 oz tomato basil pasta sauce
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Instructions

1. Lightly grease your slow cooker (4–6 quart) to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Pour in the tomato basil sauce and water. Stir well to create a smooth, slightly soupy base.
3. Add the dry tortiglioni pasta and stir until fully coated in the sauce mixture.
4. Mix in the frozen vegetables, spreading them evenly throughout the pasta.
5. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the mixture and gently press it down.
6. Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours until the pasta is tender. Avoid opening the lid too early.
7. About 20–30 minutes before serving, gently stir the pasta to prevent sticking.
8. Top with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
9. Switch to HIGH and cook for another 20–30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
10. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for the perfect creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this cheesy slow cooker pasta with:

• Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or toasted sandwich bread
• Light sides like cucumbers or cottage cheese

Pro Tips & Variations

• Add protein: Mix in cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken
• Boost nutrition: Add broccoli, spinach, or extra veggies
• Extra creamy: Replace ½ cup water with cream or milk
• Add flavor: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or black pepper
• Pasta swap: Use rigatoni or penne if tortiglioni isn’t available

Benefits of This Recipe

• Saves time with slow cooker convenience
• Uses affordable pantry ingredients
• Provides a balanced meal with carbs, veggies, and dairy
• Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
• Ideal for busy families and beginners