If you’re craving a rich, slow-cooked beef sauce with deep, savory flavors, this slow cooker beef ragu is the perfect dish. This classic Italian comfort food is easy to prepare and develops an incredible taste as it simmers for hours. The result? Melt-in-your-mouth beef infused with a delicious tomato-based sauce, perfect for pairing with pasta, polenta, or even crusty bread.
One of the best things about cooking ragu in a slow cooker is that it requires minimal effort. Simply add your ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker work its magic! Plus, the long cooking time allows the beef to become incredibly tender while enhancing the depth of flavor.
Table of Contents
Why Make Beef Ragu in a Slow Cooker?
Using a slow cooker for beef ragu offers several benefits:
- Effortless Cooking: Minimal hands-on time—just set and forget!
- Tender, Juicy Beef: Slow cooking breaks down the meat fibers, making the beef fall-apart tender.
- Enhanced Flavors: The long, slow simmer allows the ingredients to fully meld together.
- Versatility: Serve with pasta, polenta, mashed potatoes, or even as a filling for sandwiches.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup red wine (optional, but recommended for depth of flavor)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:
- ½ cup finely chopped carrots (adds sweetness and depth)
- ½ cup finely chopped celery
- Parmesan rind (adds a subtle umami flavor)
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms
- ¼ cup heavy cream (for a creamy variation)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients
- Chop the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- Cut the beef chuck roast into large chunks.
- If using red wine, measure it out in advance.
2. Sear the Beef (Optional, but Recommended for Flavor)
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef chunks for 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
- Deglaze the pan with red wine, scraping up any browned bits.
- Transfer everything to the slow cooker.
3. Assemble the Slow Cooker
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and seasonings.
- Stir well, ensuring everything is combined.
- Place the bay leaves and rosemary on top.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.
4. Shred the Beef & Adjust the Sauce
- Remove the bay leaves and rosemary sprig.
- Shred the beef using two forks.
- Stir the shredded beef back into the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes to thicken.
Best Ways to Serve Beef Ragu
This slow cooker beef ragu is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
- With Pasta: Serve over pappardelle, rigatoni, or tagliatelle.
- With Polenta: A creamy, rich base that pairs beautifully with the ragu.
- With Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every bit of the flavorful sauce.
- With Mashed Potatoes: A cozy, homestyle option for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat, adding extra broth if needed.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free pasta or over mashed potatoes.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan and heavy cream.
- Spicy Version: Increase the red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Swap out the beef for lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Brisket and short ribs also work well for this recipe.
Do I have to brown the beef before slow cooking?
No, but browning enhances the flavor and adds a rich, caramelized taste.
Can I make beef ragu in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function to brown the beef, then pressure cook on HIGH for 40 minutes, followed by a natural release.
What’s the best pasta for ragu?
Pappardelle and tagliatelle are excellent choices because their wide shape holds up well to the thick sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Beef ragu tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Conclusion
This slow cooker beef ragu is the ultimate comfort food, with rich, deep flavors and tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef. Whether you serve it over pasta, polenta, or with crusty bread, it’s a meal that will impress every time. Try this recipe today and enjoy a homemade Italian-inspired dish with minimal effort!