Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese

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This slow cooker spaghetti bolognese transforms everyday ingredients into something absolutely magical. The sauce develops deep, rich flavors as it simmers all day, creating the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with big smiles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s be honest – there’s something incredibly satisfying about coming home to the aroma of a rich tomato sauce that’s been simmering all day. This recipe takes the classic Italian favorite and makes it weekday-friendly without sacrificing any of that homemade taste.

The Secret to Amazing Bolognese

It all starts with properly browning the meat and onions. Those caramelized bits create the foundation for a sauce that tastes like it’s been simmering on an Italian grandmother’s stove all day. The slow cooker then works its magic, melding all the flavors together into something truly special.

Key Ingredients

The Meat: Ground beef creates a rich, hearty base
The Aromatics: Onion and garlic build flavor
The Tomatoes: Both crushed and paste for depth
The Seasonings: Dried herbs and Worcestershire add complexity

Pro Tips for Success

• Brown meat in batches for best flavor
• Don’t skip sautéing the onions
• Add pasta water to thin sauce if needed
• Let sauce rest 10 minutes before serving

FAQ:

Can I freeze this sauce? Yes! Freezes well up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge.
Can I use different pasta? Any pasta works – penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine are great options.
How do I store leftovers? Keep sauce and pasta separate, refrigerate up to 4 days.
What if the sauce is too thick? Add pasta water or additional broth to reach desired consistency.
Can I make this ahead? Brown meat and prep ingredients night before. Refrigerate, then start slow cooker in morning.

Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 6-8 hrs | Total: 8 hrs 15 mins
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 pound spaghetti
• Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Start Base:

• Heat oil in skillet
• Sauté onion and garlic until soft
• Brown beef, breaking into small pieces

1. Prep Slow Cooker:

• Transfer meat mixture to slow cooker
• Add all ingredients except pasta
• Stir well to combine

1. Cook:

• LOW: 6-8 hours
• HIGH: 3-4 hours
• Remove bay leaf before serving

1. Finish:

• Cook pasta separately
• Serve sauce over hot pasta
• Top with fresh Parmesan