Easy Sunday Slow Cooker Beef Ragu

As the weekend approaches, there’s nothing better than preparing a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family can enjoy. This easy Sunday slow cooker beef ragu recipe is the perfect solution for a busy day when you want a hearty and satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a tender and flavorful beef ragu pasta sauce that is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a low-effort meal for a lazy Sunday or a winter comfort food to warm you up, this slow cooker beef ragu is a versatile dish that fits the bill.

With a rich and robust flavor profile, this best beef ragu slow cooker recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a taste of Italy right in their own home. The combination of tender beef, aromatic herbs, and a savory tomato base creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress.

So, if you’re wondering how to make beef ragu in a slow cooker, look no further. This recipe will guide you through the process step by step, ensuring that you end up with a delicious and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why Make This Recipe?

What sets this slow cooker beef ragu apart from store-bought versions is the quality of ingredients and the love that goes into preparing it. Unlike takeout options that can be loaded with preservatives and unhealthy additives, this homemade beef ragu crock pot meal is made with wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about feeding your family.

By making this slow cooker beef ragu for busy Sundays, you not only save time and effort but also ensure that you’re serving a nutritious and delicious meal that everyone will enjoy. The convenience of using a slow cooker allows you to set it and forget it, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your day.

Additionally, this hearty beef ragu slow cooker dinner can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer a gluten-free version, a low-fat option, or a keto-friendly adaptation, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate various dietary needs.

With the perfect balance of flavors and textures, this slow cooker beef ragu with red wine is a true crowd-pleaser that will have your guests coming back for more. The depth of flavor from the wine adds a sophisticated touch to the dish, elevating it to restaurant-quality status.

Ingredients List

For this slow cooker beef ragu recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into chunks

– 1 onion, diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 carrot, diced

– 1 celery stalk, diced

– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

– 1 cup beef broth

– 1/2 cup red wine

– 2 tablespoons tomato paste

– 2 teaspoons dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the beef chunks on all sides. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.

2. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened. Add the mixture to the slow cooker.

3. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender.

5. Using two forks, shred the beef in the slow cooker. Stir to combine with the sauce.

6. Serve the beef ragu over cooked pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

– For added depth of flavor, sear the beef before adding it to the slow cooker.

– Use a good quality red wine for the best results.

– Let the beef ragu rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

– This slow cooker beef ragu can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Customization Ideas

– For a gluten-free option, serve the beef ragu over gluten-free pasta or zoodles.

– To make this recipe low fat, use lean beef cuts and skim any excess fat from the sauce.

– For a keto-friendly version, serve the beef ragu over cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables.

– Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350 per serving

Protein: 25g

Carbs: 15g

Fat: 20g

Fiber: 3g

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

This slow cooker beef ragu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overcooking the beef can result in a tough texture. Cook until the beef is tender but not falling apart.

– Using too much salt can overpower the other flavors. Season the dish lightly and adjust as needed before serving.

– Not allowing the sauce to simmer and reduce properly can result in a watery consistency. Cook uncovered for the last hour to thicken the sauce.

– Skipping the step of browning the beef can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Take the time to sear the beef before adding it to the slow cooker.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use pork shoulder or lamb shoulder for a different flavor profile.

Q: Is it necessary to use red wine in this recipe?

A: The red wine adds richness to the sauce, but you can omit it if desired.

Q: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot by adjusting the cooking times accordingly.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Yes, the beef ragu freezes well and makes for a convenient meal prep option.

Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?

A: You can substitute the beef with mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Pairing Ideas

This slow cooker beef ragu pairs perfectly with a side of creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this easy Sunday slow cooker beef ragu recipe is a versatile and delicious option for a comforting meal that the whole family will love. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a cozy meal on a cold winter night, this slow cooker beef ragu is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and flavorful dinner.

Sunday Slow Cooker Beef Ragu

Recipe by Author

★★★★☆

4.5 from 75 votes

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Difficulty: easy

🍽️

Servings

6

⏱️

Prep time

20 minutes

🔥

Cooking time

480 minutes

📊

Calories

350 kcal

Pin Print

A rich and robust slow cooker beef ragu with tender beef, aromatic herbs, and a savory tomato base, creating a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress. Perfect for a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family can enjoy.

Cook Mode Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the beef chunks on all sides. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened. Add the mixture to the slow cooker.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender.
5. Using two forks, shred the beef in the slow cooker. Stir to combine with the sauce.
6. Serve the beef ragu over cooked pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 350

Fat: 20

Carbohydrates: 15

Protein: 25

Sodium: 700

Fiber: 3

Sugar: 8