Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce Recipe

Craving a rich, hearty, and undeniably delicious Italian classic? Look no further! This Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce Recipe is the answer. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it method for creating a deeply flavorful meat sauce that will transform any pasta dish. Say goodbye to standing over the stove and hello to a carefree, flavorful dinner!

What is Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce?

Bolognese…it sounds fancy, doesn’t it? Like something only a seasoned Italian Nonna could whip up after spending all day in the kitchen. But is it really? Does the name come from a secret society of sauce-wielding chefs? Perhaps it’s a coded message passed down through generations, revealing the perfect ratio of tomatoes to meat?

Or maybe…just maybe…it simply comes from Bologna, Italy! Ha! Whatever its origin, one thing is certain: it’s pure comfort food. Who can resist a luscious, meaty sauce coating a plate of al dente pasta? As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and that certainly applies to everyone when this Bolognese is served!

So, are you ready to ditch the jars of pre-made sauce and embark on a flavorful adventure? Give this Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce Recipe a try and taste the difference!

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce:

This Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce is a game-changer! The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together, creating a depth of taste you just can’t achieve on the stovetop. Instead of expensive restaurant versions, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home and at a fraction of the cost. What’s more, the subtle sweetness and complexity of the sauce sings, especially with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.

For a spicier experience, consider exploring our recipe for Arrabbiata Sauce, another delicious Italian classic. However, if a deep, meaty indulgence is what you are after, this Slow Cooker Bolognese is the perfect choice. Get ready to be amazed by how simple and rewarding it is to create your own amazing slow-cooked sauce!

Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce:

Here’s what you’ll need to craft this amazing sauce. The beauty is in the simplicity!

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Forms the base for sautéing and adds flavor.
• 1 large onion, chopped: Provides a base of aromatic sweetness.
• 2 carrots, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped: Contributes to the traditional mirepoix, adding savory notes.
• 1 pound ground beef: Lean ground beef provides the rich, meaty flavor that’s fundamental to Bolognese.
• 1/2 pound ground pork: Ground pork adds depth and richness.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a sharp, pungent flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides an earthy, slightly bitter note that complements the other herbs.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a subtle, herbaceous complexity.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A dash of heat to balance the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (such as Chianti or Merlot): Deglazes the pot and adds depth of flavor; can substitute with beef broth.
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Forms the tomato base of the sauce, providing texture and richness.
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Enhances the tomato flavor and provides a smooth consistency.
• 1/2 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and intensifies the savory notes of the sauce.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional): Adds a touch of richness and creaminess to the finished sauce.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, aromatic touch when serving.

How to Make Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce:

Get ready to create a Bolognese sauce that’s easy, delicious, and utterly satisfying! This recipe is remarkably simple, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful and hearty meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker’s gentle heat transforms simple ingredients into a richly textured and incredibly tasty sauce. With just a little prep time, you can enjoy that comforting, fulfilling taste while enjoying the convenience.

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low (or 3-4 hours on high).

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step builds the flavorful base of the entire sauce.
2. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef and ground pork to the skillet. Break the meat apart with a spoon and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease. Make sure the meat is evenly browned to achieve maximum flavor.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, allowing the garlic to become fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
4. Deglaze with Wine (or Broth): Pour in the dry red wine (or beef broth) and scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits. This “deglazing” step adds depth and complexity to the sauce. Let the wine reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes.
5. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to your slow cooker.
6. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
7. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the richer and more flavorful the sauce becomes.
8. Adjust Seasoning: After the cooking is complete, stir the sauce and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
9. Add Cream (Optional): For an extra creamy Bolognese, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
10. Serve: Serve the Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce over your favorite pasta, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

What to Serve Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce With:

This versatile sauce is delicious with so many dishes:

• Pasta: The classic choice! Serve it over spaghetti, fettuccine, pappardelle, or rigatoni. Don’t forget a generous sprinkle of Parmesan!
• Polenta: For a creamy and comforting alternative. The richness of the Bolognese beautifully complements the smoothness of the polenta.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
• A Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the Bolognese.
• Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Merlot pairs perfectly with the Italian flavors of this sauce.

Top Tips for Perfecting Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce:

• Don’t Skip the Sauté! Sautéing the vegetables and browning the meat adds depth of flavor to the sauce. Cutting corners here will impact the final result.
• Quality Ingredients Matter: Using high-quality ground beef and crushed tomatoes will elevate the flavor of your Bolognese.
• Adjust the Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a little more beef broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, cook it on high for the last hour with the lid off.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch more of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs! Rosemary or bay leaf can add a unique depth to the sauce. Remember to remove them before serving.
• Wine Substitute: If you don’t have red wine, you can use beef broth as a substitute.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

• Storing: Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label and date the containers.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Then, gently heat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen it up.

Final Thoughts:

This Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce Recipe is more than just a recipe. It’s an invitation to slow down, savor the process, and create a memorable and comforting meal. The deep, rich flavors developed through slow cooking will impress everyone. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen!

try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest

FAQs:

• Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork? Yes, you can! While the flavor will be slightly different, ground turkey or chicken will still work well. Just be sure to choose ground meat that is not too lean, as it may dry out during the slow cooking process.
• Can I add vegetables that are not in the recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to your Bolognese. Just add them along with the onions, carrots, and celery at the beginning of the recipe.
• Can this Bolognese sauce be made in an Instant Pot? Yes, you can make this recipe in an Instant Pot. Use the sauté function to brown the meat and vegetables, then add the remaining ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 15 minutes.
• How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Swap out the ground meat for lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. You may also want to add some chopped mushrooms to enhance the savory flavors. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Can I make this sauce ahead of time? Yes, it’s perfect for making ahead! In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat before serving.