Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with our exquisite Slow Cooker Beef Ragu recipe! This Italian-inspired dish features tender chunks of beef chuck roast simmered to perfection in a rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce. With the convenience of your slow cooker, you can effortlessly create a dish that is sure to impress even the most discerning palate. Join us on a culinary adventure as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb adaptations to elevate your dining experience to new heights of indulgence and satisfaction.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 cup beef broth, or as needed
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Optional: Serve with cooked noodles
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef:
- Season the chunks of beef chuck roast with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Sear the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned beef chunks and sear on all sides until browned. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
- Saute Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped carrot, and chopped celery.
- Saute until the vegetables are softened and aromatic, then transfer them to the slow cooker.
- Add Tomato Paste:
- Stir in the tomato paste until well combined with the vegetables and beef.
- Deglaze with Red Wine:
- Pour the dry red wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Allow the wine to simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly, then pour it into the slow cooker.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the canned crushed tomatoes, fresh thyme sprigs, and bay leaves to the slow cooker, stirring to combine all ingredients.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors are well melded.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If the ragu is too thick, add beef broth as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Once cooked, remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves from the ragu.
- Serve the beef ragu over cooked noodles, if desired, and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For a deeper flavor, you can use boneless short ribs or beef shank in place of beef chuck roast.
- Customize the ragu by adding additional vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- For a smoky twist, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to the ragu.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Omit the noodles and serve the beef ragu over roasted spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.
- Ensure the canned crushed tomatoes do not contain added sugars.
- Adjust the amount of tomato paste to suit your keto dietary needs.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto adaptations mentioned above.
- Use a low-carb dry red wine or beef broth in place of regular dry red wine.
- Reduce the amount of tomato paste or use a sugar-free alternative.
In conclusion, our Slow Cooker Beef Ragu recipe is a testament to the timeless appeal of Italian comfort food and the convenience of slow cooking. With its tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and rich tomato-based sauce, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed over a bed of noodles or paired with low-carb alternatives, this beef ragu is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave you longing for more. So, fire up your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a taste of Italy with this irresistible recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? A: Yes! While beef chuck roast is preferred for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use boneless short ribs or beef shank for a richer and more succulent ragu.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This beef ragu can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator overnight. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of the beef ragu? A: Yes, leftovers of the beef ragu can be frozen for future enjoyment. Simply store them in an airtight container or freezer bags and label them with the date before freezing. Thaw and reheat before serving.
