Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese

Here’s a detailed recipe for Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese, a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for an easy yet satisfying meal.

Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Serves: 6

Ingredients

For the Bolognese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added warmth)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup beef or chicken stock
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving:

• 1 pound (450g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
   • Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Cook the Meat:
   • Add ground beef (or beef and pork mix) to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Deglaze the Pan:
   • (Optional) Pour in the red wine and simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits. This step enhances the depth of flavor.
4. Transfer to Slow Cooker:
   • Add the cooked beef and vegetable mixture to the slow cooker.
   • Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, paprika (if using), bay leaf, and stock. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook the Sauce:
   • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally, if possible, to ensure even cooking.
6. Finish the Sauce:
   • Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
7. Cook the Spaghetti:
   • About 20 minutes before the sauce is done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
8. Serve:
   • Toss the spaghetti with the sauce in the slow cooker for a well-coated dish, or serve the sauce ladled over the spaghetti.
   • Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves.

Tips for Success

• Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a knob of butter just before serving for a richer sauce.
• Add Depth: A teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the flavor.
• Veggie Boost: Mushrooms or zucchini can be added to the sautéed vegetables for extra nutrients.
• Leftovers: The sauce freezes well—store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

This slow cooker spaghetti Bolognese is an easy, comforting meal that the whole family will love. Pair with garlic bread and a crisp green salad for the ultimate Italian-inspired dinner!