Slow Cooker Beef Ragu

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When you’re craving a soul-warming meal that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day (even if you haven’t), this Slow Cooker Beef Ragu is the answer. This dish brings together tender, fall-apart beef with a rich tomato and herb sauce, all served over hearty ribbons of pasta. It delivers comfort in every bite, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests.

What makes this recipe truly shine is the way it transforms humble ingredients into something that feels indulgent. With just a bit of prep and a slow cooker doing most of the work, you’ll have a dinner that tastes like it came from a rustic Italian kitchen. Get ready for bold flavors, melt-in-your-mouth beef, and a sauce so good you’ll want to eat it by the spoonful.

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Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Ragu

This dish is a comfort food classic elevated with minimal effort. The beef becomes ultra-tender as it slow cooks, soaking up the rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, onions, and herbs. It’s perfect for busy days when you want dinner to practically cook itself.

What sets this recipe apart is its deep, savory flavor that builds over time. You can serve it over pasta, polenta, or even mashed potatoes. It’s freezer-friendly, feeds a crowd, and makes your home smell absolutely divine.

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What Cut of Beef Works Best for Ragu?

Chuck roast is the classic choice here, and for good reason. Its marbling breaks down during the slow cook, creating incredibly tender shreds of beef that blend beautifully into the sauce. If chuck roast isn’t available, brisket or boneless short ribs make solid alternatives.

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Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Beef Ragu

Using quality, simple ingredients is key to making this beef ragu taste as good as it looks.

• Beef Chuck Roast – The star of the show. Its marbling melts down, delivering juicy, flavorful meat.
• Onions and Garlic – A flavorful base that adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Carrots and Celery – These aromatics create balance and a subtle sweetness.
• Tomato Paste – Intensifies the richness of the tomato flavor.
• Crushed Tomatoes – Forms the luscious body of the sauce.
• Beef Broth – Adds savory depth and keeps everything moist.
• Red Wine (optional) – Offers acidity and complexity. Great for layering flavor.
• Bay Leaves and Italian Herbs – Brings those signature cozy, herby notes.
• Salt & Pepper – Season to taste; essential for highlighting all the flavors.
• Pappardelle or Tagliatelle Pasta – Wide noodles are best to catch every bit of the sauce.

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How To Make the Slow Cooker Beef Ragu

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper, then sear it in a hot skillet until browned on all sides. This step adds a deep, caramelized flavor to the dish.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened. Stir in tomato paste to caramelize slightly, enhancing its sweetness.

Step 3: Slow Cook It All Together

Transfer everything to your slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, wine (if using), herbs, and bay leaves. Nestle the beef into the sauce and cook on low for 8 hours (or high for 4-5 hours).

Step 4: Shred the Beef

Once tender, remove the beef and shred with forks. Return it to the sauce, stir, and let it soak up the flavor for another 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Serve with Pasta

Cook your pasta just before serving. Spoon the beef ragu generously over the noodles, top with parmesan, and enjoy every rich bite.

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How to Store and Serve Your Beef Ragu

This Slow Cooker Beef Ragu feeds about 6 people generously, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

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What to Serve With Beef Ragu?

Garlic Bread

The perfect crispy, buttery companion for soaking up that rich sauce.

Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery, fresh contrast to the richness of the ragu.

Creamy Polenta

For a cozier, spoonable base instead of pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a bit of char and green goodness to the meal.

Caesar Salad

The crunchy lettuce and creamy dressing play nicely with the beef.

Red Wine

A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese pairs beautifully with the sauce.

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Crispy and cheesy, these are a fun alternative to pasta.

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Want More Slow Cooker Comfort Food?

If this rich and tender ragu hit the spot, try some of these cozy favorites next:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add red wine or skip it? Serve it over pasta or polenta? I love seeing your twists on it.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and dinner ideas on Chef Lorenzo Recipes and discover your new go-to for comfort food bliss.

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