This Easy Slow Cooker Beef Ragu is a warm and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. With tender beef cooked in rich tomato sauce, it’s sure to please everyone!
Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the magic. I love serving it over pasta—it’s like a big hug in a bowl! Who wouldn’t want that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes tender. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use brisket or a round roast.
Red Wine: I love adding red wine for depth of flavor, but if you’d rather skip it, just add more beef broth or water instead.
Crushed Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes give the sauce a rich base. You can use diced tomatoes or even tomato sauce if that’s what you have on hand.
Herbs & Spices: Dried oregano, basil, and thyme bring amazing flavor. If you don’t have these, Italian seasoning will work well, too!
How Do I Get My Beef Ragu Extra Tender?
To achieve perfectly tender beef, always brown the beef chunks first. This not only adds flavor but also helps create a nice texture. Don’t rush this step! After browning, the slow cooking relaxes the meat fibers until they are fork-tender.
- Use a skillet that’s large enough to fit all your beef. Heat the oil before adding the meat.
- Ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed.
- After transferring to the slow cooker, don’t lift the lid too often. Keeping it closed helps maintain even cooking.
Easy Slow Cooker Beef Ragu for Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ragu:
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Cooked pasta or polenta, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 7-8 hours of slow cooking on low or 4-5 hours on high. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a delicious home-cooked meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper. Brown them in the skillet on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 3 minutes, until they are softened. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Deglaze the Skillet:
Pour in the red wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and loosen any delicious browned bits. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
4. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Give everything a good stir to combine.
5. Slow Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is very tender and shreds easily.
6. Shred the Beef:
Remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the sauce and stir well to combine.
7. Adjust the Seasoning:
Taste the sauce and adjust with additional salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the beef ragu over your choice of cooked pasta or creamy polenta. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your comforting and flavorful meal!
FAQ for Easy Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! While beef chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking, you can use brisket or even short ribs for a different flavor and texture. Just adjust the cooking time based on the cut you choose.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Red Wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use wine, simply replace it with extra beef broth or a splash of vinegar to maintain acidity. This will still give your ragu a delicious depth of flavor!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef ragu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing, and thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
What Should I Serve with Beef Ragu?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, polenta, or even crusty bread. You can also serve it over a bed of sautéed vegetables or with a side salad for a lighter option!
