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Crockpot Ragu

Savory Crockpot Ragu: A Cozy Italian Classic You’ll Love

This Crockpot Ragu is a heartwarming dish, blending rich flavors and hearty textures, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Use any neutral oil if preferred.
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped Adjust quantity to taste.
  • 3 medium Carrots, chopped Substitute with parsnips for a different flavor.
  • 4 sticks Celery, chopped Omit if desired; increase carrots instead.
  • 1.5 pounds Ground Beef Swap with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • 1.5 pounds Ground Pork Can be replaced with more ground beef or turkey.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh is preferred over jarred for potency.
  • 1 can Tomato Paste Provides depth and color. Use tomato sauce as a substitute in a pinch.
  • 2 dashes Italian Seasoning Make your own blend if preferred.
  • 2 dashes Dried Thyme Omit if unavailable; more Italian seasoning can be used.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Substitute with vegetable broth for a meat-free version.
  • 0.5 cup Red Wine Optional; can be replaced with broth if avoiding alcohol.
  • 0.5 cup Heavy Cream Use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative if necessary.
  • Salt & Pepper To taste, enhances flavors.

Equipment

  • Crockpot
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crockpot Ragu
  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery for 5–7 minutes. Transfer the sautéed mixture into your Crockpot.
  2. In the same skillet, add the ground beef and ground pork. Cook on medium heat for about 8–10 minutes, breaking the meat apart as it browns. Drain excess fat before adding the meats to the Crockpot.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, dried thyme, beef broth, and optional red wine into the Crockpot. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
  4. Cover the Crockpot with its lid and set the temperature to low. Cook slowly for 8 hours.
  5. When the cooking time is complete, carefully stir in the heavy cream into the Crockpot. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Once seasoned, your Crockpot Ragu is ready to serve! Ladle it over your favorite pasta, polenta, or use for lasagna.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Always opt for fresh ingredients; don't skip browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables for better flavor.

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