There’s something about a sauce that simmers all day, slowly unfolding its layers of flavor, that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This slow cooker beef bolognese does just that—turning simple ingredients into something unexpectedly comforting. I remember the first time I tried making it; I was halfway through chopping the vegetables when the phone rang, and I got a little distracted, dropping a carrot on the floor. It wasn’t a perfect start, but by the time I returned, the kitchen was already filling with the rich scent of garlic and sautéed onion. It simmered quietly for hours, and the anticipation of that first bite was almost too much to handle.
When you finally sit down with a steaming plate of pasta generously coated in this sauce, the blend of tender beef and fragrant herbs feels like a reward for the day’s little mishaps. It’s the kind of meal that invites you to slow down, savor each forkful, and maybe even linger at the table a little longer than planned.
- The slow cooker does most of the work, letting flavors deepen with minimal effort from you.
- It’s rich and hearty, yet surprisingly simple — and that’s kind of the point.
- The sauce’s texture is perfect for soaking up every bit of your favorite pasta, though I don’t always have the exact type on hand.
- It’s flexible enough to feel like a treat on a busy weeknight without requiring a ton of hands-on time.
If you’re worried about timing, it’s pretty forgiving. You can let it simmer a bit longer or shorter without losing much of that comforting depth. And while it’s classic with pasta, don’t be afraid to try it over polenta or even roasted vegetables for something a little different.
PrintSlow Cooker Beef Bolognese
A rich and hearty slow cooker beef bolognese sauce that simmers to perfection, perfect for serving over your favorite pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup dry red wine
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup whole milk
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to the slow cooker.
Pour the dry red wine into the skillet and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Add the wine and all remaining ingredients except the milk to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the whole milk and cook uncovered for the remaining time.
Serve the bolognese sauce hot over cooked pasta of your choice.
This recipe doesn’t require fancy equipment — just your trusty slow cooker and a skillet for browning the meat and veggies. I like to serve it with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. Sometimes, I’ll sneak in a splash of cream or milk at the end to soften the acidity, but that’s really just a personal preference. If you want a little variation, tossing in some chopped mushrooms or swapping ground beef for ground turkey could work, though I haven’t tested those combos extensively. Oh, and if you like a bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick.
FAQ
Can I make this without wine? Yes, you can skip the wine and use extra broth, though the wine adds a nice depth you might miss.
How do I store leftovers? They keep well in the fridge for a few days, and you can freeze portions for later — just thaw overnight before reheating.
Can I use this sauce for other dishes? Absolutely. It’s great in lasagna or even as a topping for baked potatoes.
This slow cooker beef bolognese is waiting to be your next cozy kitchen win. Why not give it a try tonight?