Slow Cooker Beef Ragu Recipe

Introduction

Imagine coming home after a long day to the comforting aroma of a rich and hearty beef ragu simmering away in your slow cooker. The tender beef, infused with the flavors of tomatoes, herbs, and red wine, is the perfect topping for a bed of pasta or creamy polenta. In this article, we will share with you our favorite slow cooker beef ragu recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker beef ragu recipe offers several features that make it truly special. First and foremost, it is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal cooking away while you go about your day.

Additionally, the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and deeply flavorful ragu. The tender and succulent beef, combined with the aromatic herbs and the sweetness of the tomatoes, creates a sauce that is simply irresistible.

Furthermore, this recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you follow a gluten-free, dairy-free, or paleo diet, you can easily customize the ingredients to fit your needs without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

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

• 2 pounds beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into 2-inch cubes
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional ingredient substitutions:

• If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes.
• For a deeper flavor, you can substitute beef stock for the beef broth.
• If you don’t have red wine on hand, you can omit it or replace it with additional beef broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious slow cooker beef ragu:

1. In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown them on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, dried oregano, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or on high heat for 4-6 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Once the cooking time is complete, remove the bay leaf and shred the beef using two forks. Stir the shredded beef back into the sauce.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered on the stovetop for a few minutes to thicken.

Pro tips:

• For more depth of flavor, you can sear the beef in the skillet until browned before adding it to the slow cooker.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last hour of cooking.
• This recipe can easily be doubled or halved to accommodate your needs.

Expert Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with this slow cooker beef ragu recipe, keep the following tips in mind:

• Trim any excess fat from the beef before cutting it into cubes.
• For a more pronounced flavor, marinate the beef cubes in the red wine for 30 minutes before browning them.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to puree the sauce before adding the shredded beef.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Variations and Substitutions

While this slow cooker beef ragu recipe is delicious as is, feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to the sauce.
• To make it vegetarian, you can substitute the beef with mushrooms or eggplant.
• If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce.
• For a Mediterranean twist, add some chopped olives and capers to the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Once your slow cooker beef ragu is ready, it’s time to enjoy it to the fullest. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal:

• Serve the beef ragu over a bed of al dente pasta, such as tagliatelle or pappardelle, for a classic combination.
• For a lighter option, you can serve the ragu over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil for added flavor.
• Pair your beef ragu with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, to complement the flavors.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about slow cooker beef ragu:

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?

A: Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking, you can also use other cuts like brisket or stew meat.

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

A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Brown the beef using the sauté function, then pressure cook for 40 minutes with a natural release.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Yes, this slow cooker beef ragu freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about a slow-cooked beef ragu. The tender beef, the rich and flavorful sauce—it’s a dish that warms both the body and the soul. With this slow cooker beef ragu recipe, you can effortlessly create a meal that will impress your family and friends. So grab your slow cooker, gather the ingredients, and let the magic happen. We guarantee that this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

Now it’s your turn to give it a try! We would love to hear about your experience with this slow cooker beef ragu recipe. Share your thoughts and any modifications you made in the comments below. Happy cooking!