Are you craving a warm, comforting, and richly flavored meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare? Look no further! This Slow Cooker Beef Ragu recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a hearty Italian-inspired dinner that’s sure to satisfy. Bursting with tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and fresh herbs, this dish makes for a delightful meal that’s as effortless as it is delicious. Get ready to transform a simple crock pot into your family’s favorite Italian-style meal, all while enjoying a hands-off cooking experience.
About Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
Slow Cooker Beef Ragu has deep roots in Italian cuisine, renowned for its ability to make simple ingredients shine. This dish celebrates the beauty of slow cooking, allowing the flavors of tender chuck roast, tomatoes, and spices to meld together into a perfectly rich sauce. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Italian meals or just love a good pasta dish, this recipe brings a heartwarming blend of flavor and texture that you don’t want to miss.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
To create this delicious meal, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds chuck roast – seasoned and cooked to tenderness
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – adds a savory aroma
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – for that classic Italian flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves – enhances the complexity
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic – freshly minced for optimal taste
- 1 large onion, diced – provides sweetness and depth
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced – adds natural sweetness
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – balances flavors
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 ounces) – the base of your ragu sauce
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth – enhances the richness
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- 8 ounces pasta (such as tagliatelle, pappardelle, or fettuccine) – cooked according to package
Optional Substitutions:
- For gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta.
- Replace beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter sauce.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Ragu – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Season the Beef
Begin by seasoning the chuck roast with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and thyme to enhance its flavor. For a little extra depth, consider letting the beef rest for a few minutes to absorb the seasonings.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In your crock pot, layer minced garlic, diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery to form a flavorful base for the ragu.
Step 3: Add the Meat and Liquids
Place the seasoned roast on top of the vegetables, then pour in beef broth and add crushed tomatoes over the roast. This layering allows the beef to slowly absorb all the savory flavors as it cooks.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The beef will become tender and easily shreddable, a sign that it’s ready.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
Once cooked, remove the beef from the pot and shred it using forks. Discard any large fat pieces, then return the shredded beef to the pot, stirring it well into the sauce. Mix in the cooked pasta, making sure it’s well coated with the rich, savory ragu sauce. Serve warm and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Helpful Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a significant difference in the flavor.
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta varieties like pappardelle or tagliatelle, which hold up well to the thick, rich ragu sauce.
- Season Generously: Slow-cooked dishes benefit from a good amount of seasoning, as the long cook time will mellow the flavors.
Cooking Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
For the best flavor and texture, follow these cooking tips:
- Sear the Roast (Optional): For added depth, sear the chuck roast in a hot pan before placing it in the crock pot. This adds a beautiful caramelized flavor.
- Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat for 8 hours yields the most tender beef, allowing all flavors to blend seamlessly.
- Add Red Wine: For an extra hint of Italian authenticity, add 1/2 cup of red wine along with the beef broth.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
Pair your Slow Cooker Beef Ragu with:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the rich sauce.
- Side Salad: A simple Caesar salad adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the hearty ragu.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Chianti or Merlot complements the dish’s bold flavors.
Nutritional Information for Slow Cooker Beef Ragu (per serving)
- Calories: 345 kcal
- Fats: 15g
- Carbs: 30g
- Proteins: 22g
- Vitamins: Includes Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Iron
Storage and Leftovers for Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
To store leftovers, place the ragu in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply warm in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
For freezer storage, place in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
- Can I use a different cut of beef?
- Yes, try using brisket or short ribs for a different flavor profile.
- What pasta works best with Beef Ragu?
- Long, flat pasta like tagliatelle or pappardelle is ideal for this thick sauce.
- Can I add vegetables?
- Feel free to add zucchini or bell peppers for extra texture.
- Is it possible to make this recipe in the Instant Pot?
- Yes! Use the “Slow Cook” function, or pressure cook on high for 1 hour for a quicker version.
Related Recipes for Beef Lovers
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole with Cornbread – A Hearty Meal
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix – Easy & Tasty
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this Slow Cooker Beef Ragu, a recipe designed for cozy family dinners and impressing guests alike. This hearty, flavorful dish is a comforting classic, easy to make and even easier to love. Don’t forget to share your feedback or any personal twists you added to make this dish your own. Enjoy every delicious bite of this Italian-inspired delight!
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Slow Cooker Beef Ragu Recipe | Hearty Italian Comfort Dish
Description
Are you craving a warm, comforting, and richly flavored meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare? Look no further! This Slow Cooker Beef Ragu recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a hearty Italian-inspired dinner that’s sure to satisfy. Bursting with tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and fresh herbs, this dish makes for a delightful meal that’s as effortless as it is delicious. Get ready to transform a simple crock pot into your family’s favorite Italian-style meal, all while enjoying a hands-off cooking experience.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chuck roast – seasoned and cooked to tenderness
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – adds a savory aroma
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – for that classic Italian flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves – enhances the complexity
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic – freshly minced for optimal taste
- 1 large onion, diced – provides sweetness and depth
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced – adds natural sweetness
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – balances flavors
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 ounces) – the base of your ragu sauce
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth – enhances the richness
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- 8 ounces pasta (such as tagliatelle, pappardelle, or fettuccine) – cooked according to package
Optional Substitutions:
- For gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta.
- Replace beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter sauce.
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Beef
Begin by seasoning the chuck roast with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and thyme to enhance its flavor. For a little extra depth, consider letting the beef rest for a few minutes to absorb the seasonings.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In your crock pot, layer minced garlic, diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery to form a flavorful base for the ragu.
Step 3: Add the Meat and Liquids
Place the seasoned roast on top of the vegetables, then pour in beef broth and add crushed tomatoes over the roast. This layering allows the beef to slowly absorb all the savory flavors as it cooks.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The beef will become tender and easily shreddable, a sign that it’s ready.
Step 5: Shred and Serve
Once cooked, remove the beef from the pot and shred it using forks. Discard any large fat pieces, then return the shredded beef to the pot, stirring it well into the sauce. Mix in the cooked pasta, making sure it’s well coated with the rich, savory ragu sauce. Serve warm and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a significant difference in the flavor.
- Choose the Right Pasta: Opt for pasta varieties like pappardelle or tagliatelle, which hold up well to the thick, rich ragu sauce.
- Season Generously: Slow-cooked dishes benefit from a good amount of seasoning, as the long cook time will mellow the flavors.
