This Ground Pork Slow Cooker Casserole doesn't hold back on the flavor front. The aromatic blend of oregano, garlic, onion, and more spices, coupled with the sweetness of bell peppers and the rich umami of tomato paste, creates a harmony of tastes that's both soothing and exciting. This is an easy recipe that the whole family will love.
Jump to:
Why you will love this recipe
Picture this: You toss a handful of ingredients into your slow cooker, let it work its magic while you go about your day, and return to a comforting masterpiece that's ready to be devoured. Minimal effort, maximum flavor – that's the name of the game for a easy weeknight dinner.
While this recipe is a star on its own, it also invites your creative touch. Feel free to swap out ingredients or add personal favorites – mushrooms, zucchini, or even a dash of crushed red pepper for a gentle kick.
Whether you're hosting a gathering or just treating your loved ones to a special meal, this casserole has you covered. Its hearty portions and irresistible flavors make it an instant hit with friends and the entire family.
You won't need to scour the ends of the Earth to find these ingredients. They're simple, easily accessible, and likely already in your pantry or fridge, just waiting to be transformed into something extraordinary.
If you love pasta recipes make sure to check out this Cheesy Italian Ground Beef Goulash and Spicy Sausage Pasta
The ingredients
You will need these simple ingredients to make the Ground Pork Slow Cooker Casserole.
- oregano
- onion powder
- garlic powder
- salt
- black pepper
- bell pepper diced
- yellow onion chopped
- garlic cloves minced
- tomato paste
- diced tomatoes
- chicken broth
- pinch of sugar
- uncooked pasta
- Ground Pork
SEE RECIPE CARD FOR QUANTITIES
How to make the Ground Pork Slow Cooker Casserole; Step by step
In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until it browns (10-12 minutes), using a wooden spoon to break it into pieces.
Throw in the diced bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the veggies are tender.
Transfer the ground pork mixture into your crock pot and add the rest of the ingredients accept the pasta.
Pop the lid on your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 4-6 hours.
30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, add the uncooked pasta to the slow cooker. Stir and cover. Continue cooking for 30 minutes.
Serve it up in deep bowls. Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of comfort if desired.
Tips
While the recipe calls for uncooked pasta to be added to the slow cooker, certain pasta shapes work better than others. Consider using shapes that can hold onto the sauce, like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle.
If you find that the casserole is looking a bit dry during the cooking process, feel free to add a splash of extra chicken broth to maintain the desired consistency.
Keep an eye on the pasta's cooking time. You want it to be tender but not overly soft.
In the unlikely event that there are leftovers (trust me, it's hard to resist seconds), the best part is this casserole tastes even better the next day!
Variations
Tex-Mex Twist:
Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans, a can of corn kernels (or frozen corn), and a sprinkle of chili powder and cumin for a southwestern flair. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Creamy Comfort:
Stir in a cup of heavy cream or sour cream during the last hour of cooking for a luscious, creamy texture. You can also sprinkle in some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness in this comforting recipe.
Veggie-Packed Powerhouse:
Load up on veggies by adding diced carrots, celery, and zucchini. You can also toss in a handful of baby spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a burst of freshness.
Substitutions
1. Ground Pork: Lean ground beef, ground turkey, ground chicken, or Italian sausage.
Note: A different ground meat will bring a unique flavor to the dish.
2. Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth, beef broth, or water with bouillon cubes.
Note: Choose a broth that complements your chosen protein and desired flavor profile.
3. Uncooked Pasta: Use your favorite pasta shape or whole wheat pasta for added nutrition.
Note: Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the pasta you choose.
4. Tomato Paste: Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes.
Note: Tomato sauce will add more liquid, so you might need to adjust the overall liquid content in the recipe.
5. Diced Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes or tomato soup
Note: Adjust the texture by using crushed tomatoes for a smoother consistency or tomato sauce for a saucier result.
6. Onion Powder and Garlic Powder: Fresh minced onion and garlic.
Note: Use about 1 teaspoon of minced onion per teaspoon of onion powder, and 1-2 minced garlic cloves per teaspoon of garlic powder.
7. Oregano: Italian seasoning, thyme, basil, or rosemary.
Note: Adjust the quantity based on the flavor intensity of the substitute.
8. Bell Pepper, Onion, and Garlic: Customize with your favorite vegetables like carrots, celery, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Note: Choose vegetables that will hold up well during slow cooking.
Serving
A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan, Romano, or Pecorino cheese adds a delightful umami kick. The cheese melts into the casserole, enriching the overall taste.
A warm loaf of crusty bread is a perfect partner for sopping up the delicious sauce. Consider serving garlic bread, a baguette, or even your favorite dinner rolls on the side.
Freshen up the meal with a crisp side salad. A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the casserole.
Serve it with steamed veggies like green beans, broccoli, or carrots for a complete and healthy meal.
Best way to store the casserole
1. Refrigeration:
Allow the casserole to cool down slightly before transferring leftovers to an airtight container.
Store the container in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Leftovers can typically be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing:
If you have more leftovers than you can consume within a few days, freezing is a great option.
Divide the pork casserole recipe into meal-sized portions and let them cool completely.
Place each portion in an airtight freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
Frozen casserole can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
3. Thawing and Reheating:
When ready to enjoy your frozen casserole, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm larger portions in the oven at a low temperature.
Add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture when reheating.
FAQ
Can I prepare this recipe without a slow cooker?
While the slow cooker method provides the convenience of a one-pot meal, you can adapt this recipe for stove top or oven cooking. Sauté the vegetables and ground pork in a large pot or Dutch oven, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer on low until the pasta is cooked and the flavors meld.
Certainly! You can prep the sautéed vegetables and seasoned ground pork ahead of time, then refrigerate them until you're ready to assemble the casserole in the slow cooker. This can be a time-saving option for busy days.
How can I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
To prevent the pasta from becoming overly soft, make sure to add the uncooked pasta during the last hour of cooking. Keep an eye on it and check for the desired level of doneness.
Ground Pork Slow Cooker Casserole
Equipment
- slow cooker
Ingredients
- 450 gr ground pork
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 large yellow onion chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can (19oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- pinch of sugar
- 12 oz uncooked shell pasta
Instructions
- In a large skillet set over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until it browns (10-12 minutes), using a wooden spoon to break it into pieces.
- Throw in the diced bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the veggies are tender.
- Transfer the ground pork mixture into your crock pot and add the rest of the ingredients accept the pasta.
- Pop the lid on your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for about 4-6 hours.
- 30 minutes before the end of the cooking time, add the uncooked pasta to the slow cooker. Stir and cover. Continue cooking for 30 minutes.
- Serve it up in deep bowls. Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of comfort if desired.
Notes
Tips
- While the recipe calls for uncooked pasta to be added to the slow cooker, certain pasta shapes work better than others. Consider using shapes that can hold onto the sauce, like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle.
- If you find that the casserole is looking a bit dry during the cooking process, feel free to add a splash of extra chicken broth to maintain the desired consistency.
- Keep an eye on the pasta's cooking time. You want it to be tender but not overly soft.
- In the unlikely event that there are leftovers (trust me, it's hard to resist seconds), the best part is this casserole tastes even better the next day!
dina and bruce miller
Making it today for Sunday supper, and smells divine!
Sophie Viau
That's wonderful to hear! The aroma of a delicious meal cooking can be so inviting. I hope your Sunday supper turns out amazing and that you and your loved ones enjoy the Pumpkin Butter Chicken
Kristen
This casserole was so good! My whole family loved it!
Elisa
This Ground Pork Slow Cooker Casserole recipe, looks delicious and easy to make!!! perfect for dinner night and saves on time. Will try it soon. Thanks for sharing 🙂