This Easy Slow Cooked Bolognese is a rich, tasty sauce that simmers all day, filling your home with delightful smells. Ground meat, tomatoes, and herbs come together for a comforting meal!
You won’t believe how simple it is to toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Serve it over pasta, and watch your family ask for seconds—even the pickiest eaters! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of your Bolognese. For variety, try using ground turkey or even a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, lean ground chicken works too.
Crushed Tomatoes: These create the base of your sauce. If you’re out, you can substitute with diced tomatoes or even fresh tomatoes, just blend them first! Also, tomato sauce or passata is a great alternative if you want a smoother texture.
Red Wine: It adds depth to the sauce, but if you prefer to skip it, try using a splash of balsamic vinegar or simply increase the broth. You’ll still get a tasty result.
Vegetables (Onions, Carrots, Celery): These are part of the classic mirepoix. You can mix it up by adding bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor. If you’re short on time, frozen mixed vegetables work too!
How Do I Achieve a Rich Flavor in My Bolognese?
Creating a flavorful Bolognese takes time, but it’s easier than you think! Here are a few tips:
- Sauté Vegetables: Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery until soft. This builds a flavor base.
- Browning the Meat: Make sure to brown the meat well to enhance its flavor. Don’t rush this step!
- Low and Slow: Let the sauce simmer for at least 6 hours on low. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt and pepper. Fresh herbs added at the end can brighten the flavor too!
With these tips, you’ll end up with a comforting, flavorful Bolognese that’s worth the wait!
Easy Slow Cooked Bolognese
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 can (400g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Pasta of choice (spaghetti, tagliatelle, or penne)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time. Cooking time in the slow cooker is around 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. So, you can set it in the morning and come back to a warm, delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and the onions are translucent.
2. Add Garlic and Ground Meat:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Now, add the ground meat to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned all over.
3. Transfer to Slow Cooker:
Once the meat is cooked, transfer the mixture into your slow cooker. Make sure to scrape all the flavorful bits from the skillet into the slow cooker as well!
4. Mix in the Sauce Ingredients:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, and red wine (if you’re using it). Add the dried herbs and bay leaf, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sauce becomes thick and flavorful. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors develop!
6. Final Touches:
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaf. Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Bolognese sauce over your choice of cooked pasta. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley or basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious, slow-cooked Bolognese!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooked Bolognese
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw it is in the fridge overnight. If you need it quicker, place the sealed package in cold water for about an hour. Make sure to drain any excess liquid before browning.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Bolognese sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bolognese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Serve with This Bolognese Sauce?
This Bolognese is delicious served over pasta like spaghetti, penne, or tagliatelle. You can also pair it with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or even use it as a filling for lasagna or stuffed peppers for a creative twist!
