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–+ servings
Slow Cooker Bell Pepper Pasta
This vibrant slow cooker bell pepper pasta brings together the sweet tang of bell peppers, the rich depth of tomatoes, and the punch of garlic and herbs. Cooked low and slow, this recipe lets the flavors meld into a deeply satisfying vegetarian sauce. It’s a fuss-free dish perfect for weeknights or meal prep, finishing with a toss of hot pasta and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a comforting, rustic Italian-inspired meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 367 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ cups bell peppers (red, yellow, or green, chopped)
  • ½ cup onion (medium, chopped)
  • 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • 6 oz tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp garlic (chopped )
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
  • ½ lb hot cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
  • 3 tbsp Parmesan cheese (grated )

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

  • Chop bell peppers and red onion. Mince garlic if not using pre-chopped.

Step 2: Assemble in Slow Cooker

  • Add chopped bell peppers, onion, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, garlic, olive oil, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Slow Cook

  • Cook on LOW for 7 hours or on HIGH for 3 hours, or until vegetables are very tender and the flavors are well combined.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

  • Cook pasta separately. Adjust seasoning in the sauce to taste. Stir in hot cooked pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Tips

  • Use a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers for a sweeter, more colorful sauce.
  • Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra vegetables.
  • Stir in a splash of cream at the end for a richer, silky sauce.
  • Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
  • Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef for protein.
  • Substitute whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired.
  • Use fire-roasted canned tomatoes for smoky depth.
  • Add fresh basil before serving for brightness.
  • For a spicier dish, increase red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Calories: 367kcalCarbohydrates: 61gProtein: 12gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 3mgSodium: 416mgPotassium: 925mgFiber: 6gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 2595IUVitamin C: 93mgCalcium: 130mgIron: 4mg
Keyword bell peppers, comfort food, easy dinner, Italian-style sauce, slow cooker pasta, vegetarian option
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