Name: Slow Cooker Beef Ragu
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486876H19M24S
Total time: PT-486876H19M24S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef chuck roast or brisket, trimmed and cut into chunks; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1/4 cup red wine (optional); 1 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish); Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

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Slow Cooker Beef Ragu is a rich, hearty dish made with tender beef simmered in a flavorful sauce of tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs. Perfect for a cozy meal, this ragu is ideal for serving over pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender as it slowly cooks in the slow cooker, and the sauce develops a deep, savory flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. This hands-off recipe is simple to prepare, yet delivers a comforting and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Beef Ragu is a game-changer for busy nights when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooking method allows the beef to become incredibly tender while infusing the sauce with rich, deep flavors. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner and pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread. With minimal prep and the convenience of the slow cooker, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite for family dinners or entertaining.

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck roast or brisket (trimmed and cut into chunks)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth)
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra richness)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Beef:

Sear the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef chunks and sear them on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side). This step helps lock in the flavor. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step helps develop the base flavors of the ragu.

Make the Ragu:

Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef, sautéed onion, and garlic into the slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), beef broth, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar (if using), oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cook the Ragu: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become perfectly tender.

Shred the Beef:

Shred the Beef: Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes on low to soak up the sauce.

Serve:

Serve: Serve the beef ragu hot over your choice of pasta, polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil and top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
Total time: 7-8 hours (or 4-5 hours on high)

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the slow cooker for added flavor and texture.
Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili for a spicier kick.
Use Ground Beef: If you prefer ground beef, you can substitute the chuck roast or brisket with ground beef, although the texture will be different.
Use a Different Cut of Beef: If you prefer, you can use other cuts like beef short ribs or stew meat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Beef Ragu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat or in the microwave. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, store it in a freezer-safe container, and when ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.

Slow Cooker Beef Ragu

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute the beef chuck roast with other cuts like short ribs, brisket, or stew meat. Just ensure they’re cuts that benefit from slow cooking to become tender.

Can I cook this dish on the stovetop instead of in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the ragu on the stovetop. After searing the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, combine everything in a large pot. Bring it to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally until the beef is tender.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, Beef Ragu actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Make it ahead of time, refrigerate it, and simply reheat when ready to serve.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! You can increase the red pepper flakes, add a diced jalapeño, or stir in some hot sauce to make the ragu spicier.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! To make this in an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to brown the beef and cook the onions and garlic. Then, add all the ingredients, secure the lid, and cook on high pressure for 50 minutes. Allow it to naturally release for 10 minutes, then shred the beef and stir it back into the sauce.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef Ragu is a flavorful, rich, and comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing for a busy week. The slow-cooked beef becomes incredibly tender, and the sauce is packed with savory, deep flavors. Whether served over pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes, this Beef Ragu will surely become a family favorite. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for those who love a hearty, satisfying meal. Try it today and enjoy the irresistible flavors of a slow-cooked, melt-in-your-mouth ragu!

Slow Cooker Beef Ragu

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients