Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Macaroni and Tomatoes
Looking for a simple, family-friendly dinner that tastes like childhood? This slow cooker 3-ingredient macaroni and tomatoes recipe is the ultimate comfort food. With just canned stewed tomatoes, elbow macaroni, and butter, you can make a cozy, hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
This recipe is budget-friendly, requires minimal prep, and fills your home with a warm, buttery aroma that everyone will love. It’s also kid-approved, gluten-friendly if you use GF pasta, and perfect for pairing with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or your favorite protein for a complete meal.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
2 cans (14.5 oz each) stewed tomatoes, undrained
2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni (about 8 oz)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
Directions
Prepare the slow cooker: Lightly grease a 3–4 quart slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray.
Add the tomatoes: Pour in the stewed tomatoes with all their juices. Gently break up large pieces with a spatula, leaving a rustic texture.
Add pasta: Stir in uncooked elbow macaroni, ensuring it’s mostly submerged in tomato juices. Press gently if needed.
Add butter: Distribute the butter pieces evenly over the macaroni and tomatoes.
Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 1½ to 2½ hours, stirring once halfway through. Check at 1½ hours for desired tenderness.
Finish and serve: Stir well so the macaroni is coated in buttery tomato sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm straight from the slow cooker.
Benefits of This Recipe
Quick & Easy: Only 3 ingredients and minimal prep.
Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples you probably already have.
Family-Friendly: Soft, buttery pasta kids and adults love.
Comfort Food: Perfect nostalgic meal for busy weekdays or cozy weekends.
Versatile: Serve alone, with vegetables, or alongside grilled chicken or meatloaf.
Tips & Variations
Mash stewed tomatoes for a smoother sauce.
Add extra butter for richer flavor.
Serve with shredded cheddar or Parmesan at the table for a cheesy twist.
Stretch the meal by serving over garlic toast for an open-faced style dinner.
Leftovers reheat easily; add a splash of water or butter to loosen the sauce.
