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Crock-Pot Beef Ragu


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  • Author: asma
  • Total Time: ~8 hours
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Crock-Pot Beef Ragu is a rich, hearty, and slow-cooked Italian-inspired dish perfect for a cozy dinner. Made with tender, fall-apart beef, tomatoes, red wine, garlic, and aromatic herbs, this slow-cooked ragu is best served over pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food. Easy to prep and full of deep, savory flavors!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast (cut into large chunks)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup red wine (or beef broth)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 Parmesan rind (optional, for extra flavor)
  • Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sear the beef (optional but recommended) – Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.

  2. Sauté the aromatics – In the same pan, cook the onion and garlic for 2 minutes, then transfer to the Crock-Pot.

  3. Add remaining ingredients – Pour in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, beef broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, bay leaves, and Parmesan rind (if using). Stir to combine.

  4. Slow cook – Cover and cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily.

  5. Shred the beef – Remove the beef chunks, shred them with two forks, and return to the sauce. Stir to combine.

  6. Serve & garnish – Serve over pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • Use short ribs or brisket for an even richer flavor.
  • Swap red wine for balsamic vinegar if preferred.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7-8 hours (low) / 4-5 hours (high)
  • Category: Dinner, Slow Cooker Meals, Italian-Inspired
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Italian