Slow-Cooker Beef Ragu – Rich, Hearty, and Set-It-and-Forget-It Easy!
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Slow-cooker Beef Ragu
Welcome to this delightful recipe blog post featuring the mouthwatering Slow-cooker Beef Ragu. If you’re a fan of hearty and flavorful dishes that require minimal effort, this recipe is a game-changer. Imagine tender beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce, slowly cooked to perfection in your trusty slow cooker.
Slow-cooker Beef Ragu is a classic Italian comfort food that will warm your soul and impress your taste buds. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this recipe:
Why You’ll Love Slow-cooker Beef Ragu
– It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple steps
– The slow cooker does all the work for you, infusing the beef with amazing flavors
– Perfect for busy days when you want a delicious homemade meal without the fuss
– The leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great meal prep option
Now, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to create this delectable Slow-cooker Beef Ragu:
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into chunks
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
With your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for creating this savory Slow-cooker Beef Ragu:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then place it in the slow cooker.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the beef.
3. In a bowl, mix together the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, and basil.
4. Pour the tomato mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the beef is tender.
6. Using two forks, shred the beef in the slow cooker and mix well with the sauce.
7. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions:
Slow-cooker Beef Ragu pairs perfectly with cooked pasta such as pappardelle or rigatoni. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a finishing touch. Serve with a side salad and crusty bread to complete the meal.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions:
– For a healthier version, you can use lean beef such as sirloin or round roast.
– Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
– Incorporate diced carrots and celery for added vegetables and texture.
Pro Tips for Success:
– Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker can enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
– Allow the ragu to simmer on low for the full cooking time to achieve the most tender beef.
– Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, Slow-cooker Beef Ragu freezes well. Simply store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: While chuck roast works best for this recipe, you can also use brisket or short ribs for a richer flavor.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a kick of heat.
Q: What can I serve with Slow-cooker Beef Ragu?
A: This ragu pairs well with creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or even crusty garlic bread.
Q: Can I cook this on high instead of low?
A: While it’s best to cook this dish on low for tender beef, you can cook it on high for 4-5 hours if you’re short on time.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of creating a delicious Slow-cooker Beef Ragu that will surely become a family favorite. With its rich flavors and tender beef, this recipe is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or special occasions. Embrace the simplicity of slow cooking and enjoy the hearty goodness of this Italian classic.
Slow-cooker Beef Ragu
A classic Italian comfort food featuring tender beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce, slowly cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This hearty and flavorful dish is easy to prepare and ideal for busy days.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into chunks
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Season the beef with salt and pepper, then place it in the slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the beef.
- In a bowl, mix together the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, and basil.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Using two forks, shred the beef in the slow cooker and mix well with the sauce.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
