Sunday Slow Cooker Beef Ragu – Rich, Tender & Easy to Make 🍝🥩✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for the ultimate beef ragu recipe that is both hearty and effortless, look no further! This slow cooker beef ragu is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Crafted using a crockpot, this dish develops deep, savory flavors while you go about your day. Whether you’re a fan of crockpot recipes beef or simply love slow cooker dinner ideas, you’ll find this beef ragu recipe a standout. Plus, it’s an ideal crock pot slow cooker dish that combines tender meat with rich tomato sauce, creating a dish perfect for any occasion.
2. Ingredients for Delicious Beef Ragu
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for searing
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For accessories, consider a crockpot / slow cooker which makes this slow cooker recipes beef incredibly convenient. Find all needed kitchen gadgets to optimize this dish with an efficient premium non-stick cookware set for sautéing and searing.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
**Preparation and Searing**
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on all sides. This step adds depth to your beef ragu flavor. Transfer the browned beef to your crockpot.
**Saute Vegetables**
In the same skillet, add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until translucent, then scrape up any browned bits to incorporate more flavor. Transfer to the crockpot.
**Combine Ingredients**
Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine and ensure the flavors meld during cooking.
**Cook and Slow Roast**
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours. The beef will become impossibly tender, shredding apart easily for a perfect beef ragu. For a richer taste, stir occasionally and adjust seasoning as necessary.
**Finish and Serve**
Shred the beef with two forks, then serve your slow cooker beef ragu over pasta, polenta, or even stirred into risotto. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. For a quick side, consider pairing with some easy taco rice bowl.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Beef Ragu
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to maintain moisture. For ultimate convenience, you can also rehear the dish using a Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 for rapid warming.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Beef Ragu Experience
This beef ragu pairs beautifully with wide pasta like pappardelle or rigatoni. For a low-carb option, serve over spiralized vegetables or cauliflower rice. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of good quality olive oil for enhanced flavor. To elevate your meal further, look into KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer for preparing fresh pasta from scratch.
6. FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Beef Ragu
What is beef ragu?
Beef ragu is a slow-cooked meat sauce made with tender chunks of beef, tomatoes, and herbs, traditionally served over pasta or polenta. It offers rich, savory flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Can I make beef ragu in a regular pot?
Yes, you can replicate this dish on the stovetop using a heavy-bottomed pot. However, a slow cooker makes it more convenient with minimal effort and better flavor development.
How long does it take to cook beef ragu?
Using a slow cooker, it takes about 6-8 hours on low for perfectly tender beef. On the stovetop, it can take around 2-3 hours of simmering.
Is beef ragu suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. It reheats well and tastes even better after the flavors meld.
7. Final Thoughts
This Sunday Slow Cooker Beef Ragu is a must-try for anyone wanting a comforting, easy-to-make beef ragu recipe. Perfect for busy schedules, its rich flavors and tender texture will make it a family favorite. Elevate your dinner game with this versatile crockpot dish and enjoy the magic of slow cooking. Don’t forget to explore other slow cooker recipes on our site for more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!
8. Additional Resources & Equipment Recommendations
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Keep your drinks perfectly chilled during long cooking sessions.
- King Arthur Baking Ultimate Bread Baker’s Cookbook – For creating homemade pasta to serve alongside your beef ragu.
- EUHOMY Portable Rapid Ice Maker – Perfect for cooling beverages during gatherings with your delicious beef ragu meal.
9. Conclusion
Enjoy making and sharing this Sunday Slow Cooker Beef Ragu with family and friends. This crockpot recipe highlights the best qualities of a hearty beef ragu—rich, tender, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a slow cooker dinner, it simplifies meal prep without sacrificing taste. Feel free to experiment with different pasta types or incorporate seasonal vegetables for a personalized touch. Happy cooking!
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Sunday Slow Cooker Beef Ragu – Rich, Tender & Easy to Make
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Discover the rich and tender flavors of Sunday Slow Cooker Beef Ragu – an easy and hearty dish perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Made with succulent chunks of beef simmered in a savory tomato sauce, this slow cooker recipe yields melt-in-your-mouth meat paired with versatile pasta options or alternatives. Ideal for those seeking a stress-free yet flavorful dinner solution, this beef ragu is a comfort food classic you can make effortlessly with minimal prep. Elevate your weeknight dinner with this rich, tender, and easy-to-make slow cooker beef ragu that impresses every time.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for searing
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season beef chunks with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on all sides. Transfer to slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent. Scrape up browned bits and add to the slow cooker.
- Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Mix well.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is tender and easily shreddable.
- Shred the beef with two forks, then serve over pasta, polenta, or risotto. Garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy the rich and hearty flavor!
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of red wine during cooking.
- Use high-quality beef for the best flavor.
- Serve with your favorite pasta or grain for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian