Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese
The aroma of garlic sizzling gently in olive oil fills the kitchen, mingling with the richness of ground beef and tomatoes bubbling away. A plate of Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace, a taste of home that warms both the belly and the soul. This recipe is a family favorite that has been passed down through generations, each time sparking memories of cozy dinners shared with loved ones, laughter echoing between bites. Let’s dive into creating this delightful homemade dish that promises to become a staple in your own culinary repertoire.
Why This Recipe Works
There are countless reasons why this Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese will earn a special place in your heart and kitchen:
- Simplicity: Toss everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it until dinner time.
- Flavorful: Slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld together, creating an intensely delicious sauce that’s hard to resist.
- Versatility: This dish can be adapted to suit dietary preferences and is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings.
- Tradition: Bolognese sauce is rooted in Italian culture, making it a meal that connects you to culinary history.
- Family Favorite: The whole family will love it, making it an excellent option for feeding a crowd.
Ingredient Breakdown
To create this beautiful bowl of comfort, gather the following ingredients:
- Ground Beef (1 pound): For a rich, hearty base. You can swap it for ground turkey or a meat substitute for a healthier option.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Perfect for sautéing and adding fat for flavor.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): A staple for any savory dish, adding sweetness as it caramelizes.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Because every good Bolognese needs garlic for depth of flavor.
- Carrots (2, finely chopped): They add natural sweetness and color to the sauce.
- Celery (2 stalks, finely chopped): A traditional ingredient for that classic taste.
- Canned Tomatoes (28 ounces, crushed or diced): For the sauce base; opt for low-sodium if preferred.
- Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons): For thickness and concentrated tomato flavor.
- Red Wine (1 cup, optional): A splash of red wine enhances the richness (leave it out for a non-alcoholic version).
- Italian Seasoning (2 teaspoons): Brings the flavors together beautifully.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Essential for flavor building.
- Spaghetti (cooked according to packet instructions): Serve the sauce over your choice of pasta (gluten-free options work well too).
Prep and Cooking Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (on low) or 3-4 hours (on high)
- Total Time: 6-8 hours and 15 minutes
This Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese is perfect for busy weeknights; just prep in the morning, and return home to a beautifully cooked dinner waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prep Ingredients: Begin by chopping the onions, carrots, and celery. This aromatic trio is known as a "soffritto," forming the flavor base of your Bolognese.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Brown the Meat: In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste, breaking it up with a spoon.
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Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed veggies and browned meat to your slow cooker. Stir in canned tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, and Italian seasoning.
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Set and Forget: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
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Cook Pasta: About 15 minutes before serving, prepare your spaghetti according to package instructions.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, give the sauce a good stir, and serve over the spaghetti. Pair with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an added touch!
Tips and Creative Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian spaghetti Bolognese.
- Add Spice: For a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a diced chili during cooking.
- Herbs Galore: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be added in the last hour of cooking for a pop of freshness.
- Seasonal Veggies: Feel free to add zucchini or bell peppers based on what’s in season.
Serving Suggestions
This Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese makes for a delightful centerpiece at a family dinner. Picture everyone gathered around the table, laughter ringing out as bowls are filled to the brim. It’s also perfect for potlucks or as a comforting meal on a chilly evening, paired with crusty bread and a side salad.
Storage and Leftovers
Storing leftovers is a breeze! Allow the Bolognese to cool, then distribute it into airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth rehydrate the sauce for the best texture.
Pro Kitchen Secrets
- Let it Rest: Allow the Bolognese to sit for 15 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to develop even further.
- Umami Boost: Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to deepen the savory flavors.
- Zest it Up: A twist of lemon juice added before serving brightens flavors remarkably.
FAQs
- Can I make this Bolognese dairy-free? Absolutely! Just skip the cheese and serve with a dairy-free pasta.
- How can I freeze the leftovers? Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, and label them for easy recognition.
- What if I don’t have red wine? You can replace it with beef broth for a non-alcoholic version without losing moisture.
- Can I prep this ahead of time? Yes! You can chop your vegetables and brown the meat a day ahead, keeping them in the fridge until ready to use.
Conclusion
Creating this Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese is not just about making a delicious meal; it’s about gathering loved ones and sharing experiences. So why not invite your family to join in the cooking, or surprise them with this comforting classic after a long day? Embrace the joy this recipe brings, and share it with those you cherish. Let the flavors tell your story today!
Contents
Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese
Ingredients
For the sauce
- 1 pound Ground Beef Can swap for ground turkey or meat substitute.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing.
- 1 medium Onion, chopped Adds sweetness.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced Essential for flavor.
- 2 pieces Carrots, finely chopped Adds natural sweetness.
- 2 stalks Celery, finely chopped Traditional ingredient.
- 28 ounces Canned Tomatoes, crushed or diced Opt for low-sodium if preferred.
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste For thickness.
- 1 cup Red Wine, optional Enhances richness.
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning Brings flavors together.
- to taste Salt and Black Pepper For flavor building.
For serving
- 1 pound Spaghetti, cooked Serve sauce over pasta.
Instructions
Preparation
- Chop the onions, carrots, and celery to prepare the soffritto.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- In the same skillet, add the ground beef and cook until browned; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer sautéed veggies and browned meat to the slow cooker. Stir in canned tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, and Italian seasoning.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 15 minutes before serving, prepare your spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Serve the sauce over the cooked spaghetti and add Parmesan cheese and fresh basil as desired.