Slow Cooker Beef Ragu – Welcome to the world of mouthwatering comfort food! Our Slow Cooker Beef Ragu recipe is a true gem that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Picture tender beef chuck roast cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, infused with aromatic vegetables, and simmered in a rich and flavorful sauce. This recipe has the power to transport you to a cozy Italian trattoria, where every bite is a moment of pure culinary bliss. Prepare to be amazed by its simplicity and amazed by its taste. Get ready to fall in love with this slow-cooked wonder!
As the aroma of the Slow Cooker Beef Ragu fills our home, memories come flooding back of countless cherished moments shared around the dinner table. This recipe has become a beloved staple in our household, thanks to my husband’s unwavering love for it. It all started on a chilly winter evening when I surprised him with this luscious dish. The flavors were so exquisite that he couldn’t stop raving about it. From that day forward, it has become a family tradition—a celebration of togetherness, love, and good food. Whether it’s a Sunday supper or a festive gathering, this recipe never fails to bring smiles, warmth, and contentment to our little family. Join us in creating your own unforgettable memories with this Slow Cooker Beef Ragu.
Why This Slow Cooker Beef Ragu Recipe Shines?
- Unparalleled Tender Beef: Our recipe calls for succulent beef chuck roast, slow-cooked to absolute perfection. The long cooking time allows the meat to become incredibly tender, practically melting in your mouth.
- Flavorful Veggie Symphony: Carrots, onions, celery, and garlic join forces to create a harmonious blend of flavors. They infuse the beef with their aromatic essence, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.
- A Sauce Worth Savoring: The combination of red wine, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste creates a luxurious sauce that envelops the beef and vegetables. With the addition of oregano, basil, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper, every spoonful becomes an explosion of savory delight.
- Customizable Thickness: Want a thicker sauce? We’ve got you covered! Simply stir in a cornstarch mixture, allowing the sauce to simmer until it reaches your desired consistency. The choice is yours!
- Versatile Pairings: This hearty ragu is incredibly versatile. Serve it over al dente pasta for a classic Italian experience, or ladle it over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist. Feeling adventurous? Try it atop creamy polenta for a delightful fusion of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 1.4 kg (3 lb.) beef chuck roast
- 225 g (1 cup) diced carrots
- 225 g (1 cup) diced white onion
- 225 g (1 cup) diced celery
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) red wine
- 240 ml (1 cup) beef broth
- 411 g (14.5 oz.) can of crushed tomatoes
- 170 g (6 oz.) can of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 bay leaves
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 30 ml (2 tablespoons) water (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Place the beef chuck roast in the slow cooker insert, then arrange the diced carrots, onions, celery, and minced garlic around the roast.
Pour the red wine, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste over the top. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, bay leaves, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should become tender and easily shredable with two forks.
Once the beef is tender, shred it using the forks and stir it to integrate with the vegetables.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixture and let it cook uncovered until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
Serve the luscious Slow Cooker Beef Ragu over your favorite pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or indulgent polenta. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Take a moment to savor the aroma, then dig in and enjoy the tantalizing flavors!
Notes:
- For a twist, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for future indulgence. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, and it will taste just as amazing as the first serving.
In conclusion, the Slow Cooker Beef Ragu recipe is a true masterpiece that will leave you craving more. Its tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich sauce combine to create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones or indulging in a cozy night in, this recipe brings people together and fills your home with warmth and delightful aromas.
Give it a try and let this Slow Cooker Beef Ragu become a beloved staple in your own household. Create memories around the dinner table, savor each bite, and experience the joy of sharing a meal made with love. It’s time to embark on a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Get ready to fall in love with the irresistible flavors of this Slow Cooker Beef Ragu!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness, you can experiment with other cuts like beef shoulder or brisket. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, as different cuts have different levels of toughness.
Can I make this recipe without red wine?
Yes, you can omit the red wine if desired. The wine adds depth and complexity to the sauce, but you can substitute it with additional beef broth for a delightful result.
Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To cook this recipe on the stovetop, use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Follow the same steps, but instead of using a slow cooker, simmer the beef and vegetables over low heat for about 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for later enjoyment. Make sure to store them in airtight containers or freezer bags. When reheating, gently thaw the frozen ragu in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What side dishes pair well with Slow Cooker Beef Ragu?
This versatile dish goes well with various sides. Classic choices include al dente pasta, mashed potatoes, or polenta. You can also serve it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
Ingredients
- 1.4 kg 3 lb. beef chuck roast
- 225 g 1 cup diced carrots
- 225 g 1 cup diced white onion
- 225 g 1 cup diced celery
- 3 cloves of garlic minced
- 120 ml 1/2 cup red wine
- 240 ml 1 cup beef broth
- 411 g 14.5 oz. can of crushed tomatoes
- 170 g 6 oz. can of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 bay leaves
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 30 ml 2 tablespoons water (optional)
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place the beef chuck roast in the slow cooker insert, then arrange the diced carrots, onions, celery, and minced garlic around the roast.
- Pour the red wine, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste over the top. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, bay leaves, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should become tender and easily shredable with two forks.
- Once the beef is tender, shred it using the forks and stir it to integrate with the vegetables.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixture and let it cook uncovered until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
- Serve the luscious Slow Cooker Beef Ragu over your favorite pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or indulgent polenta. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Take a moment to savor the aroma, then dig in and enjoy the tantalizing flavors!
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