Description
Looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for meal prep or family dinner? This Slow Cooker Beef Ragu is a rich and hearty dish, featuring tender shredded beef in a tomato-garlic sauce infused with wine and herbs. It’s the ultimate easy dinner solution, made right in your slow cooker with minimal effort. Serve over pappardelle for a rustic, comforting bowl that’s freezer-friendly, meal-prep approved, and incredibly flavorful. Perfect for those seeking dinner ideas, food ideas, or a no-fuss easy recipe.
Ingredients
3 pounds beef chuck roast
2 carrots, diced
1 large onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
28 ounces crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 cup dry red wine (like Chianti or Merlot)
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh basil, for garnish
12 ounces pappardelle or tagliatelle pasta
Instructions
1. Sear the beef in a hot skillet until browned on all sides to develop rich flavor.
2. Add chopped onions, carrots, and garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and red wine.
4. Add bay leaves, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Place the seared beef into the slow cooker and cover.
6. Cook on low for 8 hours, or until beef is tender and easily shreds.
7. Remove beef, shred with forks, and return to the sauce. Stir well.
8. Cook pasta according to package instructions before serving.
9. Serve ragu over pasta and garnish with fresh basil.
Notes
Use freshly grated parmesan for an extra flavor boost before serving.
If skipping the wine, replace with extra broth and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar.
Make it a full meal by adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers into the mix.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 generous bowl
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: easy dinner, slow cooker, beef ragu, comfort food, pasta sauce