Sunday Slow Cooker Beef Ragu – Rich, Tender & Easy to Make 🍅🍖✨
1. Introduction
Discover the ultimate Beef Ragu recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, flavorful, and tender beef dish. This Crockpot Recipes Beef is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a slow cooker dinner that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum taste. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a delicious crowd-pleaser, this Ragu Recipe combines savory beef with rich tomato sauce for a mouthwatering experience. If you love slow cooker dishes, this Crockpot Dishes is an absolute must-try. Join us as we walk through every step to create a perfect, beef ragu that your family will love!
2. Ingredient List for the Best Beef Ragu
- 2 pounds of beef chuck or brisket, cut into large chunks
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but recommended)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3. Step-by-Step Preparation of the Crockpot Beef Ragu
3.1. Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, chopping the carrots, and celery stalks. Cut the beef into large chunks suitable for slow cooking. Gather all your ingredients for a seamless cooking process.
3.2. Sear the Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides. This step develops depth of flavor for your beef ragu. For an even greater flavor twist, check out our Korean ground beef bowl for alternative marinades and seasoning ideas.
3.3. Load Ingredients into the Crockpot
Transfer the seared beef to your Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, celery, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices. Pour in the red wine for added richness.
3.4. Slow Cook the Beef Ragu
Set your Crockpot on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 4-5 hours. During this time, the beef becomes tender, and the flavors meld beautifully. For a variety of crockpot recipes, explore our crockpot recipes.
3.5. Final Touches and Serving
Once cooked, shred the beef slightly with a fork or spoon. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot over your favorite pasta or bread. For pasta options, you might enjoy our creamy parmesan beef rigatoni for an indulgent twist.
4. Storage Tips for Beef Ragu
Leftover beef ragu can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick reheating process that preserves the rich flavors.
5. Serving Suggestions & Pairing Ideas
This beef ragu recipe pairs beautifully with fresh pasta such as pappardelle, fettuccine, or even polenta. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for added flavor. Consider serving alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner experience. Looking for more hearty dinner ideas? Check out our collection of dinner recipes.
6. FAQs about Beef Ragu
What cut of beef is best for beef ragu?
Opt for tougher, well-marbled cuts like beef chuck or brisket, which become extremely tender during slow cooking. These cuts provide the richest flavor and the perfect texture for a classic beef ragu.
Can I make beef ragu in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to prepare beef ragu faster. Brown the beef, then cook under pressure for about 40 minutes. This method speeds up the process while still giving you meltingly tender beef.
How do I thicken beef ragu?
If your ragu is too watery, simmer it uncovered on the stove for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened. You can also add a slurry of cornstarch and water for quick thickening. For a creamy texture, try adding a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone.
7. Related Crockpot Recipes You’ll Love
8. Why Choose Our Slow Cooker Beef Ragu?
This recipes is a perfect slow cooker recipe designed for ease, flavor, and versatility. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal prep—ideal for busy schedules and anyone seeking a delicious dinner recipe that’s both satisfying and straightforward. For kitchen tools that make cooking easier, consider the Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker for consistent results every time.
9. Conclusion
In conclusion, this Sunday Slow Cooker Beef Ragu is a flavorful, tender, and easy-to-make beef ragu recipe perfect for any weeknight or special dinner. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a hearty dish that impresses everyone at the table. Whether served over pasta, polenta, or bread, this crockpot dinner is sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
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Sunday Slow Cooker Beef Ragu – Rich, Tender & Easy to Make
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes – 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Discover the rich and tender flavor of our Sunday Slow Cooker Beef Ragu. This easy-to-make, hearty dish transforms simple ingredients into a melt-in-your-mouth beef ragu perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s ideal served over pasta, polenta, or bread for a satisfying meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of beef chuck or brisket, cut into large chunks
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but recommended)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, chopping the carrots, and celery stalks. Cut the beef into large chunks suitable for slow cooking. Gather all your ingredients for a seamless cooking process.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides. This step develops depth of flavor for your beef ragu.
- Transfer the seared beef to your Crock-Pot. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, celery, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices. Pour in the red wine for extra richness.
- Set the Crockpot on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. During this time, the beef becomes tender and flavors meld beautifully.
- Once cooked, shred the beef slightly with a fork or spoon. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot over your favorite pasta, polenta, or bread.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, simmer the ragu uncovered on the stove for an additional 15-20 minutes or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken.
- Use well-marbled cuts like beef chuck or brisket for best flavor and tenderness.
- This dish can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 390 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
