Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to   the slow cooker.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, grated carrot, and diced celery to the slow cooker.
3. In a bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix   well and pour the sauce mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
5. About 20 minutes before serving, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the     spaghetti.
6. Serve the slow cooker spaghetti bolognese over the cooked spaghetti. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Expert Tips for Success

. Here are some expert tips to ensure your slow cooker spaghetti bolognese turns out perfectly:

– Browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds an extra depth of flavor to the dish.

– If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.

– Feel free to add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.

– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Variations and Substitutions

. While the classic slow cooker spaghetti bolognese recipe is delicious on its own, here are some variations and   substitutions you can try:

– For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or your favorite plant-based ground meat substitute.

– Add a kick of heat by adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

– If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top of the bolognese before serving for a gooey and melty twist.

Serving Suggestions

. To fully enjoy your slow cooker spaghetti bolognese, here are some serving suggestions:

– Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

– Pair with a glass of red wine for a perfect dining experience.

– Garnish with fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley for added freshness and color.

FAQs

Q: Can I cook the spaghetti directly in the slow cooker?

A: It’s not recommended to cook the spaghetti directly in the slow cooker as it may become mushy. It’s best to cook the spaghetti separately according to the package instructions.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

A: Absolutely! You can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Simply blanch and peel the tomatoes, then dice them before adding them to the slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

Slow cooker spaghetti bolognese is the epitome of comfort food. With its rich flavors and tender beef, it’s a dish that warms both the body and soul. The convenience of the slow cooker makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. So gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and let it work its magic. Your taste buds will thank you!