This 5-ingredient slow cooker poor man’s radiatori bake is my go-to “April showers” dinner—when the weather is gloomy, the day is packed, and I just want dinner handled hours ahead. It leans on pantry staples and budget-friendly ingredients, but still turns out like a cozy, bubbling pasta bake with soft, ruffled shapes tucked under a golden, cheesy top. Radiatori (or any short, ruffled pasta) is perfect here because all those little ridges grab the sauce and melted cheese, creating that deeply caramelized, gelatinous, bubbling layer you see when you lift the slow cooker lid. It’s very much a Midwest weeknight kind of meal: familiar, hearty, and low-stress.
Slow cooker radiatori bake on a cozy kitchen counter
Slow cooker radiatori bake on a cozy kitchen counter
Serve big spoonfuls of this radiatori bake straight from the slow cooker with a simple green salad (bagged salad mix totally works) and some garlic toast or buttered bread to scoop up the extra sauce and melty cheese. A side of steamed broccoli or green beans balances the richness without adding much effort. If you like a little heat, pass crushed red pepper flakes at the table. For drinks, keep it easy with iced tea, lemonade, or a light red wine if you’re unwinding after a long day.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Radiatori Bake
Servings: 6
Ingredients
12 oz dry radiatori pasta (or other short ruffled pasta)
3 cups jarred marinara or pasta sauce
2 cups water
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1 lb mild Italian sausage (bulk or casings removed)
Five simple ingredients arranged for the pasta bake
Five simple ingredients arranged for the pasta bake
Directions
Spray the inside of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray for easier cleanup.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink, 6–8 minutes. Drain off excess fat if needed.
Italian sausage browning in a skillet
Italian sausage browning in a skillet
Pour the jarred marinara or pasta sauce into the slow cooker. Stir in the water until evenly combined to create a loose, pourable sauce.
