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Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese

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This Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is a rich and hearty pasta dish made with tender ground beef simmered slowly in a flavorful tomato sauce with herbs, garlic, and vegetables. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy evenings, this easy slow cooker Bolognese delivers deep homemade flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • pounds ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • Parmesan cheese, grated for serving
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened.
  • Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
  • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
  • Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker.
  • Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Italian seasoning, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves.
  • Stir everything together until well combined.
  • Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
  • About 20 minutes before serving, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
  • Drain the pasta and serve topped with the slow-cooked Bolognese sauce.
  • Garnish with grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Notes

Browning the beef first creates deeper flavor and better texture.Cooking the sauce low and slow develops the richest taste.Add a splash of red wine for extra depth and complexity.Remove the lid during the final 30 minutes if you prefer a thicker sauce.Freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for best texture when reheating.