Putting dry noodles in the crockpot is totally doable, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure they turn out perfectly cooked. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about cooking dry noodles in the slow cooker.
Can You Cook Dry Noodles in the Crockpot?
Yes, you can absolutely cook dry noodles like pasta, egg noodles, or soba noodles in the crockpot! The low, slow heat of the crockpot is perfect for gently hydrating and cooking noodles until they are tender.
Crockpots cook at around 200°F on low and 300°F on high. This lower temperature range allows time for the noodles to gradually absorb liquid and become tender without overcooking into a mushy mess.
Tips for Cooking Noodles in a Crockpot
Here are some tips to ensure perfectly cooked noodles from your crockpot:
- Use enough liquid – Noodles will absorb a lot of liquid as they cook, so make sure to use ample broth, sauce, or water in the recipe. A good rule of thumb is to cover the noodles with 1-2 inches of liquid.
- Stir occasionally – Periodically stir and redistributed the noodles, especially during the first hour of cooking. This prevents them from sticking together in clumps.
- Leave some bite – Don’t cook noodles until completely soft. They will continue to soften as they sit in the hot crockpot, so take them out when they are just shy of your desired tenderness.
- Add during last hour – If cooking noodles in a recipe with other ingredients, add them during the last hour of cooking so they don’t get overdone.
- Cook on high – Cooking noodles on the high setting helps hydrate and tenderize them faster.
What Types of Noodles Work Best?
The best noodles for crockpot cooking include:
- Egg noodles – Wide egg noodles hold up well to simmering and absorb flavors nicely.
- Soba noodles – These Japanese buckwheat noodles plump up perfectly in the crockpot.
- Udon noodles – Chewy udon noodles work great in Asian soups and braises.
- Lasagna noodles – Break lasagna sheets into pieces to make comforting casseroles.
- Orzo – This small pasta works well in crockpot dishes like soups and risottos.
Sturdier noodles like the above types can withstand the prolonged moist cooking environment of the crockpot. Delicate pastas like angel hair or capellini tend to turn mushy and overcooked.
Crockpot Noodle Recipes to Try
Here are some delicious ways to use noodles in the slow cooker:
Crockpot Lasagna
Break lasagna noodles into bite-sized pieces and layer with ricotta, marinara, and mozzarella for classic lasagna flavor with easier prep.
Beef Stroganoff
Simmer tender chunks of beef with mushrooms and onions, then stir in egg noodles at the end for a hearty, comforting meal.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken soup with noodles is a perfect soul-warming crockpot meal. Use egg noodles, soba noodles, or small pasta.
Mac and Cheese
Cook macaroni or small shell pasta in a cheesy sauce until creamy and decadent.
Asian Noodle Bowls
Ramen, udon, or lo mein noodles pair deliciously with slow cooked chicken or beef and loads of vegetables.
Tips for Avoiding Mushy, Sticky Noodles
To prevent gummy, overcooked noodles, follow these tips:
- Don’t stir too vigorously, which can turn noodles to mush.
- Use a noodle type that holds its shape well when cooked.
- Cook on high heat to set noodles faster.
- Remove noodles from heat as soon as they reach desired tenderness.
- Rinse with cool water to stop cooking if noodles seem overdone.
Conclusion
Cooking noodles in the crockpot opens up so many easy, flavorful meal ideas. Just about any noodle can be made in the slow cooker with the right techniques. Keep liquid levels high, stir occasionally, and watch cooking times. In no time, you’ll be whipping up amazing crockpot noodle soups, bakes, and stews that the whole family will love!
