3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Glazed Paccheri
3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Glazed Paccheri is a simple baked-style pasta dish made with large paccheri pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and cheese. The slow cooker gently cooks the pasta while the sauce coats the pasta tubes with a savory, satisfying flavor.
Recipe Details
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 2–3 hours on LOW
Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Cooking Method: Slow Cooker
Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients
1 pound (450 g) paccheri pasta
4 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Time: 2 minutes
Lightly grease the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil.
This helps prevent the pasta and cheese from sticking to the sides.
Step 2: Add the Ingredients
Time: 5 minutes
Add the uncooked paccheri pasta to the slow cooker.
Pour the marinara sauce over the pasta and stir gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
Add approximately 1½ cups of the shredded mozzarella and stir gently to distribute it throughout the pasta.
Spread the remaining mozzarella evenly over the top.
Step 3: Cook the Paccheri
Time: 2–3 hours on LOW
Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
Cook on LOW for approximately 2–3 hours.
Check the pasta after about 2 hours because paccheri can become soft quickly once fully cooked.
The pasta should be tender but not mushy, and the sauce should be hot and bubbling around the edges.
Step 4: Finish the Cheese
Time: 5 minutes
Once the pasta is tender, keep the lid on for approximately 5 minutes to allow the remaining cheese to melt completely.
If the cheese has not melted sufficiently, switch the slow cooker to HIGH for 2–3 minutes while watching carefully.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Time: 5 minutes
Turn off the slow cooker and let the paccheri rest uncovered for approximately 5 minutes.
This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes the pasta easier to serve.
Step 6: Serve
Spoon the glazed paccheri into bowls and serve immediately while hot and cheesy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
Fresh green salad
Steamed broccoli
Roasted vegetables
Garlic bread
Sautéed spinach
Grilled chicken
Storage Instructions
Allow leftovers to cool and refrigerate them in an airtight container within 2 hours.
Store for up to 3–4 days.
For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Instructions
Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
For better texture, reheat in a covered skillet over low heat with 1–2 tablespoons of water or additional tomato sauce.
Heat until the pasta is thoroughly hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does Slow Cooker Paccheri take to cook?
A: It takes approximately 2–3 hours on LOW. Begin checking at the 2-hour mark because slow cookers vary and pasta can become overcooked if left too long.
Q: Can I use another type of pasta?
A: Yes. Rigatoni, ziti, penne, or another large pasta can be substituted. Cooking time may vary depending on the shape and thickness.
Q: Do I need to boil the paccheri first?
A: No. This version uses uncooked pasta and cooks it directly in the slow cooker with the sauce.
Q: Why is my pasta still hard?
A: It may need additional cooking time or more liquid. Stir gently and continue cooking in 15–20 minute intervals until tender.
Q: Why did my pasta become mushy?
A: Paccheri can overcook easily in a slow cooker. Begin checking it at around 2 hours and turn off the slow cooker as soon as the pasta reaches the desired texture.
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Yes. Provolone, Monterey Jack, fontina, or an Italian cheese blend can be used instead of mozzarella.
Q: Can I add meat or vegetables?
A: Yes, but that would make the recipe more than three ingredients. Cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can be added.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: It is best cooked shortly before serving because pasta continues to absorb sauce while sitting. You can prepare the ingredients ahead and refrigerate them separately.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes. Freeze cooled portions in airtight freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months for best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: How can I make the top extra cheesy?
A: Add an extra layer of mozzarella during the final 10–15 minutes of cooking and keep the lid closed so the cheese melts evenly.
Q: Can I make this recipe on HIGH?
A: LOW is recommended for more even cooking. If using HIGH, check the pasta frequently because the cooking time can vary considerably between slow cookers.
Estimated Nutrition Information
Per serving, based on 6 servings:
Calories: Approximately 430–480
Protein: Approximately 19–23 g
Fat: Approximately 14–17 g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 55–60 g
Fiber: Approximately 4–6 g
Net Carbohydrates: Approximately 50–55 g