A few weeks ago while browsing online, I came upon a Pinteresting recipe that I sort of modified to make as my own last week. The original recipe called for 1.5 pounds of lean ground beef, but we all know that's not enough meat for the four males in my house! I regularly use at least 2 pounds of meat for whatever entree I am making. For things like brisket or chicken breasts, it's closer to 4 pounds. And we NEVER have leftovers. See why I'm so frugal? I sorta have to be.
I must admit I was unsure how this was going to turn out. But, I'm happy to report that we ALL loved it and not even my pickiest eater complained about having to eat spinach! It was filling, comforting, and just the perfect thing to indulge in after a long day. I will, however, say that this is NOT the kind of crock pot recipe that you can simply put in early in the day and leave and just expect it to be ready when you are. There is a bit of prep and some steps at the end that you'll need to plan and account for. Here's the scoop:
Crock pot Italian Sausage + Spinach Bowtie Pasta
What you need (i.e., what I used):
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 lb. Italian sausage
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can of tomato sauce
- 1 can stewed tomatoes
- 2 tsp. (approx.) oregano
- 2 tsp. (approx.) Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh spinach leaves (bagged or bunch)
- 16 oz. bowtie pasta, cooked
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella or Italian cheese
What to do:
Brown the beef and Italian sausage along with the garlic and onions, then drain. Place into the crock pot and top with the tomato sauce, tomatoes, oregano, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Then add spinach, cooked bowtie pasta, Parmesan and 1 cup of the mozzarella and stir to mix well. Turn the crock pot to high and heat through for another 15-20 minutes. Finally, add the remaning 1 cup of mozzarella and cover till cheese is completely melted on top.
I served this with garlic toast and side salad. Enjoy!
Candy TaiCANDY TAI is a wife to David and mom of 5 with a degree in Communications. She's a native Texan (Hook 'Em Horns!) who's been making her home in the Kansas City metro area for nearly 15 years. She loves being able to shuffle her kids from their various sports activities, piano lessons, and school activities. She enjoys fashion, beauty, reality TV, and moviegoing.
Looks yummy. Can't wait to try it!
Posted by: Susan | November 11, 2011 at 12:53 AM
Thanks Susan! It is quite delicious! Another reader of mine commented on Facebook that she added mushrooms too, which would be great for all mushroom lovers! :) Enjoy.
Posted by: candy | November 11, 2011 at 02:43 PM