Effortless and irresistible.
I don’t know how many times I’ve claimed that something is the “ultimate comfort food” but this Slow Cooker Beef Ragu makes me want to take it all back. What is more comforting than tender, falling apart beef in a rich and savory tomato sauce? Nothing. (Or at least not a lot of things.) And with this recipe, the slow cooker makes that stick-to-your-ribs deliciousness nearly effortless. The only thing difficult about this is deciding what to serve it over – but when you’re choosing from polenta, mashed potatoes, or pasta there’s no way to lose.
Serves 6
5m prep time
4h cook time
INGREDIENTS
3 lb beef chuck roast
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup white onion, diced
1 cup celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup red wine
1 cup beef broth
1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
2 bay leaves
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
PREPARATION
Place roast in slow cooker insert, then arrange carrots, onion, celery, and garlic around the roast.
Pour red wine, broth, tomatoes, and tomato paste over the top, and add oregano, basil, and bay leaves. Season liberally with salt and pepper, stir to combine, and cover and cook on low 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Once done, beef should shred easily with two forks. Shred meat and stir to integrate with vegetables.
If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in cornstarch mixture and let cook uncovered until sauce has thickened. Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or polenta. Enjoy!
