Slow Cooker Bolognese

Introduction

Slow Cooker Bolognese is a rich and hearty sauce that makes for a perfect pasta topping. This slow-cooked recipe allows the flavors to deepen and develop, resulting in a delicious sauce that’s packed with tender ground meat, vegetables, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. This method uses a slow cooker to do most of the work, making it an easy option for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef, pork, and veal)
• 1 1/2 cups milk, divided
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables and Meat:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until tender, about 10 minutes.
   • Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off excess fat.
2. Add Milk:
   • Pour in 1 cup of milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the milk simmer until it is absorbed, about 15 minutes.
3. Transfer to Slow Cooker:
   • Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
   • Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 hours.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients:
   • Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of milk and Parmesan cheese. Cover and continue to cook for an additional 2 hours on HIGH.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Bolognese is an easy and flavorful way to make a classic pasta sauce. Using the slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich and savory dish that’s perfect for ladling over hot pasta. This versatile sauce can be made ahead of time and stored for later use, making it a convenient option for busy meals. Serve it with your favorite pasta, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, and fresh basil for a comforting and delicious dinner.