My grandfather showed me this clever Depression-era trick for making meals go further during tight times like tax season. With just three simple ingredients, you can create a warm, comforting dish that’s easy on the budget.
Slow Cooker 3-Ingredient Hot Dog Macaroni
This slow cooker hot dog macaroni is a simple, nostalgic dish that turns a few pantry staples into a sweet-and-savory comfort meal. As the dry elbow macaroni cooks alongside sliced hot dogs and ketchup, it absorbs moisture released from the hot dogs along with the tangy-sweet base of the sauce. The end result is tender pasta coated in a glossy, flavorful glaze—making it a quick, kid-friendly option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 8 hot dogs, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 8 oz elbow macaroni (dry)
- 1 1/4 cups ketchup
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Lightly grease a 4–6 quart slow cooker. Add the dry macaroni and sliced hot dogs.
Tip: Cutting the hot dogs into even pieces helps them release moisture evenly as they cook, which is key for softening the pasta.
Step 2: Add the Sauce
Pour the ketchup over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated. It may seem thick, but don’t add liquid—the ingredients will produce steam as they cook.
Step 3: Cook
Cover and cook on HIGH for 1½ to 2 hours.
Stirring tip: About halfway through cooking, give everything a good stir to prevent the edges from overcooking and to ensure even texture throughout.
Step 4: Finish and Adjust
Once the pasta is tender, stir again before serving.
Tip: If the mixture looks too thick or sticky, add 1–2 tablespoons of hot water and stir. This will help create a smooth, glossy sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
