Slow Cooker Crushed Tomato Beef

When you need an easy, hearty dinner that practically cooks itself, this slow cooker crushed tomato beef is a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation. Ground beef, crushed tomatoes, onion, and Italian seasoning slowly cook together to create a rich, savory tomato sauce with tender, flavorful beef.

This easy crockpot ground beef recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because the slow cooker does most of the work. Serve it over spaghetti, egg noodles, rice, mashed potatoes, or creamy polenta for a comforting family dinner that is simple, filling, and budget-friendly.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Recipe

• Easy weeknight dinner: Simple ingredients and minimal preparation make this recipe convenient for busy families.
• Slow cooker comfort food: Low-and-slow cooking brings the beef, tomatoes, and seasonings together into a rich, satisfying meal.
• Budget-friendly: Ground beef and canned tomatoes are affordable pantry and freezer staples.
• Versatile: Serve the beef mixture over pasta, rice, potatoes, or polenta.
• Great for meal prep: Leftovers keep well and can be frozen for another meal.
• Family-friendly: The mild tomato and Italian seasoning combination is easy to customize for different tastes.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Slow Cooker Crushed Tomato Beef

1. Add the beef and seasonings

Lightly grease the slow cooker if desired. Place the raw ground beef in the slow cooker and break it into large pieces. Sprinkle the chopped onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly over the beef.

2. Add the crushed tomatoes

Pour the crushed tomatoes evenly over the beef and onion. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.

Cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until the ground beef reaches a safe internal temperature and is fully cooked.

3. Break up the beef

Remove the lid and carefully break the cooked beef into smaller pieces using a spoon or spatula. Stir thoroughly so the beef, onions, and tomato sauce are evenly combined.

Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.

4. Serve

Spoon the hot tomato beef over your favorite pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or polenta. Finish with grated Parmesan, fresh parsley, or a little extra Italian seasoning if desired.

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Crushed Tomato Beef

This versatile beef mixture works with many simple side dishes:

• Spaghetti or penne
• Buttered egg noodles
• White or brown rice
• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Creamy polenta
• Garlic bread
• Roasted green beans
• Steamed broccoli
• Simple green salad

Easy Variations

Add more vegetables: Stir in diced carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

Make it more filling: Add a drained can of white beans during the final part of cooking, or serve it over a generous portion of rice or pasta.

For extra depth of flavor: Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet before transferring them to the slow cooker. This extra step is optional but can give the finished dish a richer, more savory flavor.

For picky eaters: Finely mince the onion so it becomes very soft and blends into the tomato sauce. You can also replace the fresh onion with about 1 teaspoon of onion powder.

Make it cheesy: Sprinkle Parmesan or shredded mozzarella over each serving for an easy cheesy finish.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover slow cooker beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, allow the beef to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Recipe Benefits

This easy slow cooker ground beef recipe is especially useful for busy households because it combines convenience, affordability, and versatility in one meal. Ground beef provides protein, while tomatoes contribute flavor and useful nutrients. Serving the beef with vegetables, beans, or whole-grain pasta can make the meal more balanced and satisfying.