This Easy Slow Cooked Bolognese Sauce is hearty and full of flavor! With ground meat, tomatoes, and simple spices, it cooks slowly to let all the tasty ingredients blend perfectly.
You can just set it and forget it while it bubbles away. It’s a family favorite, and I can’t resist tossing it over pasta for a warm, cozy meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I usually use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be less rich.
Vegetables: The classic mirepoix includes onion, carrot, and celery. You can add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies. They’ll add more texture and flavor! Don’t have fresh? Frozen vegetables are great, too.
Milk: Whole milk makes the sauce creamy and rich, but you can substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like oat milk for a vegan version. If using non-dairy, keep an eye on the sauce since it may alter the consistency.
White Wine: This adds depth to the sauce, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, beef broth or additional stock works as a tasty alternative. The key is to maintain that liquid to keep the sauce saucy!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Slow Cooked Sauce?
Building flavor is key to a great Bolognese. Start by properly sautéing your vegetables; they should be soft and fragrant! Don’t rush—this first step is where a lot of the base flavor comes from.
- Brown the meat well. This creates a delicious crust and enhances flavor.
- Simmer the milk before adding tomatoes. This adds richness and helps tenderize the meat.
- Let it cook low and slow! The longer it simmers, the better the flavors meld together.
Lastly, remember to taste as you go. Adjust seasoning to your liking just before serving. Enjoy the warm, cozy goodness of your Bolognese sauce!
Easy Slow Cooked Bolognese Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1-2 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and then a lovely long cooking time of 6-8 hours in the slow cooker on low (or 3-4 hours on high). Perfect for a day at home or prepping ahead for a satisfying meal later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once warm, add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and starting to smell delicious!
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. This will infuse the oil with a lovely garlic fragrance—yum!
3. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground meat to the pan. With a wooden spoon, break it up and cook until it’s browned all over. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Simmer with Milk:
Pour in the cup of whole milk and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This step helps to tenderize the meat and gives the sauce a rich flavor.
5. Optional Wine Step:
If you’re using white wine, add it now and cook it until most of it evaporates. It should take just a couple of minutes.
6. Mix in the Tomatoes and Herbs:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and bay leaves. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer to Slow Cooker:
Now, pour all that goodness into a slow cooker. Set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally if you can, but it’s okay if you can’t!
8. Finish and Serve:
Before serving, remove the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve your wonderful Bolognese sauce over pasta and top with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs if you like!
Enjoy your comforting, rich slow-cooked Bolognese!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a healthier alternative to beef. Just note that it may produce a slightly different flavor and texture. To enhance richness, consider adding a bit of olive oil or extra seasoning.
Can I Prepare This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This sauce can be made a day in advance. Simply let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
How Long Will Leftover Bolognese Last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, place it in an airtight container and it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Sauce Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, use a mix of chopped mushrooms, lentils, and chopped vegetables in place of the meat. You can still follow the same cooking instructions for delicious results!
