Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Pasta Recipe

If you dream of the kind of cozy, comforting pasta that can lift your spirits any night of the week—look no further than Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Pasta. It’s rich, cheesy, impossibly easy, and lets your slow cooker do almost all the hard work. This recipe is one of those rare gems that tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen, but is secretly weeknight-simple!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Pasta is all about simple, no-fuss ingredients that work together to create a flavor-packed pasta dinner. Each one brings its own magic, whether it’s adding creaminess, tang, or that wonderful herbal punch from pesto.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts become extra tender and shred beautifully in the slow cooker. They soak up all that pesto flavor!
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken right from the start. Don’t skip—it sets the foundation for every bite.
• Jarred pesto: Store-bought pesto keeps things easy without sacrificing flavor. Make sure to check for nut allergens if needed, and feel free to use your favorite brand!
• Salted butter: Sliced over the chicken, this adds a luscious richness that brings the sauce together and enhances the basil and cheese flavors.
• Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up the entire dish and adds a little zing you’ll absolutely notice.
• Dried rotini pasta: Hearty spirals that hold onto the cheese and pesto so well; cook and drain before stirring them in at the end.
• Grated parmesan: The “shaker” style parmesan melts easily and boosts the savory, nutty notes in the sauce.
• Shredded mozzarella: Melts on top to create that irresistible stretch and gooeyness—pasta bliss!
• Dried basil: Just a sprinkle as garnish for that classic Italian look and a little pop of herbal freshness.

Variations

Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Pasta is endlessly customizable, so don’t be afraid to make it your own! A few simple swaps or additions can transform it for your dietary needs or whatever you’re craving.

• Veggie-Loaded: Stir in baby spinach, roasted peppers, or steamed broccoli at the end for extra color and nutrition.
• Swap the Protein: Try it with boneless skinless thighs, cooked shredded rotisserie chicken for even faster prep, or even cannellini beans for a vegetarian twist.
• Go Nut-Free: Use pesto made without nuts (check the label or make your own!) if allergies are a concern.
• Change Your Pasta: Sub out the rotini for penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free varieties depending on your needs.

How to Make Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Pasta

Step 1: Layer the Chicken and Flavor Boosters

Begin by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Season them generously with salt and pepper, then spoon over the pesto so every piece is smothered in herby goodness. Squeeze half a lemon over the top—this little touch makes all the difference in brightness. Finally, slice the butter and lay it across the chicken, ensuring melt-in-your-mouth flavor as everything cooks.

Step 2: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook everything on low for 5-6 hours. Avoid peeking—keeping that heat in is key for juicy, tender chicken that will shred effortlessly. In this time, your kitchen will fill with the savory scent of basil, garlic, and rich butter.

Step 3: Prepare the Pasta

Near the end of the chicken’s cooking time, bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package directions. Drain it well—no soggy pasta in this dish, please!—so it’ll soak up the creamy pesto sauce later.

Step 4: Shred Chicken & Combine Everything

Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, shred it directly in the slow cooker using two forks—don’t worry, it’ll come apart with almost no effort! Now, pile in the cooked, drained pasta and toss in the parmesan. Stir until all the pasta is glossy and the buttery pesto sauce clings to every bite of chicken and noodle.

Step 5: The Melty Finale

Sprinkle that glorious mozzarella over the top, cover again, and let it sit for about 15 minutes. When you lift the lid, get ready for the cheesiest, meltiest pasta you’ve ever tasted. Top with a dusting of dried basil before serving—perfection!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Pasta

Garnishes

This pasta looks irresistible with a final sprinkle of dried (or fresh!) basil and a little extra grated parmesan. For something even brighter, try a scatter of halved cherry tomatoes or a few ribbons of fresh basil on top—both add color and a pop of freshness.

Side Dishes

This cozy pasta pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed with tangy vinaigrette for a crisp contrast. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette make perfect partners for mopping up the extra pesto sauce—don’t let a drop go to waste!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual bowls topped with a mini mozzarella ball or swirl the pasta onto plates with extra fresh herbs. Hosting a party? Spoon the Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Pasta into a big serving platter and garnish with lemon zest and toasted pine nuts for an extra-festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing up, and keep the container tightly closed so everything stays creamy and fresh.

Freezing

To freeze, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. The cheese might separate a bit after freezing, but a splash of cream when reheating brings the sauce right back to life. Use within 2 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a tablespoon or two of water, broth, or milk to loosen the sauce as it warms up. Stir occasionally for even heating and gooey, melty cheese with every bite.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re hunting for a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, Slow Cooker Pesto Mozzarella Pasta is the answer. I hope you make this for your family or friends soon—one taste and it might just become your new favorite comfort food too!

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