Crockpot Brown Butter Tomato and Ricotta Pasta

Crockpot Brown Butter Tomato and Ricotta Pasta

When you’re searching for a recipe that epitomizes comfort while also being remarkably easy to prepare, look no further than Crockpot Brown Butter Tomato and Ricotta Pasta. Can you imagine an effortless meal that fills your home with tantalizing aromas and warms your soul? This dish combines the rich nutty notes of brown butter with luscious tomatoes and creamy ricotta, marrying flavors in a way that feels gourmet but couldn’t be simpler. Picture this: blending culinary techniques while simply tossing everything in a slow cooker, allowing the ingredients to meld and create a magic that will surely impress your family and friends.

A fun little tidbit about this recipe? The process of brown butter—where you gently cook butter until it turns a beautiful amber color—is an age-old cooking technique that elevates even the simplest of dishes. With minimal hands-on time, this slow-cooked delight is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly evening. The fun and simplicity make it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings! If you’ve enjoyed classics on our blog like Creamy Spinach Pasta, you’re in for a treat. Grab your ingredients, because I’m excited to help you bring this delightful dish to life!

What is Crockpot Brown Butter Tomato and Ricotta Pasta?

What a curious name for such a delightful dish, right? “Crockpot Brown Butter Tomato and Ricotta Pasta” rolls off the tongue like a foodie’s symphony! But what’s the story behind this culinary wonder? Well, when you first hear "brown butter," you might think, "Did someone forget to keep an eye on their butter?" But in reality, this golden, nutty concoction adds depth to our beloved tomato sauce. Aren’t you curious how something so simple can sound so fancy? As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and trust me, this pasta will be your secret weapon! Why not whisk away into the kitchen and discover the deliciousness for yourself?

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Brown Butter Tomato and Ricotta Pasta

This recipe encapsulates everything you could want in a comforting home-cooked meal. For starters, the key highlight is undoubtedly the brown butter. It transforms typical ingredients into something extraordinary, adding complexity you didn’t know your tomato sauce was missing. Plus, there’s a significant cost-saving benefit in making this dish at home rather than dining out; your wallet will thank you! And let’s not forget about the ricotta—its creaminess envelops you like a warm embrace, making each bite utterly delightful.

For a quick comparison, think of it as a sophisticated cousin of the classic spaghetti and marinara—easier to prepare and bursting with sumptuous flavors. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and whip this pasta up in your own kitchen?

How to Make Crockpot Brown Butter Tomato and Ricotta Pasta

Quick Overview

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, taste, and the delightful method of using a slow cooker. With just a few easy steps, this dish comes together seamlessly and is packed with flavor. It takes about 20 minutes of prep time, after which you can let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting!

Key Ingredients for Crockpot Brown Butter Tomato and Ricotta Pasta

• 1 pound of pasta (your choice, but penne works wonderfully)
• 4 cups of diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 cup of ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Brown the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir constantly until it turns golden brown and starts to smell nutty, about 5–7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it!
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot: In your slow cooker, combine the diced tomatoes, garlic, and brown butter. Stir in the pasta and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or on high for about 2 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally, allowing the pasta to absorb all that delicious sauce.
4. Add Ricotta and Parmesan: Once the pasta is cooked and tender, stir in the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy your decadent creation!

What to Serve Crockpot Brown Butter Tomato and Ricotta Pasta With

While this pasta dish is a complete meal in itself, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad perfectly balances the richness of the pasta. A loaf of crusty garlic bread would pair wonderfully for those who want to soak up every last bit of that luscious brown butter sauce. And don’t forget a glass of white wine or sparkling water to enhance your dining experience!

Top Tips for Perfecting Crockpot Brown Butter Tomato and Ricotta Pasta

To ensure your dish turns out just right, be mindful of several tips. First, select a pasta that holds up well in the slow cooker; shapes like penne or fusilli typically work best. You might also want to experiment with different cheeses—perhaps a sprinkle of mozzarella on top before serving for extra gooeyness! Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente, as it will continue to cook for a bit even after you turn off the crockpot. Always taste and adjust your seasonings near the end.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you’d like to enjoy this dish later, consider freezing it; it can be kept in the freezer for up to two months. For reheating, simply warm it up in a saucepan on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back that sauciness. Just think of the comfort you’ll have at your fingertips, ready to brighten up a busy day!

By now, you should be ready to add the delicious and effortless Crockpot Brown Butter Tomato and Ricotta Pasta to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the tasty journey and don’t hesitate to share this delightful dish with your family and friends! Happy cooking!

Crockpot Brown Butter Tomato and Ricotta Pasta

A comforting and simple dish that combines the nutty flavors of brown butter with tomatoes and creamy ricotta, all cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Sauce Ingredients

• 1 pound pasta (your choice, but penne works wonderfully)
• 4 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter For browning
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir constantly until it turns golden brown and starts to smell nutty, about 5–7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it!
2. In your slow cooker, combine the diced tomatoes, garlic, and brown butter. Stir in the pasta and season with salt and pepper.

Cooking

1. Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or on high for about 2 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally, allowing the pasta to absorb all that delicious sauce.
2. Once the pasta is cooked and tender, stir in the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
3. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy your decadent creation!

Notes

For best results, select a pasta that holds well in the slow cooker, such as penne or fusilli. Customize with different cheeses, and avoid overcooking the pasta to maintain al dente texture.