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There’s something truly comforting about a slow cooker recipe, and this Slow Cooker Beef Ragu fits that description perfectly. Imagine coming home to a warm, delicious aroma wafting through your house after a long day. This dish combines the rich flavors of beef and Italian sausage simmered together with vegetables and crushed tomatoes, creating a hearty sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta, polenta, or even crusty bread. It’s the kind of meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, making it a go-to choice for family dinners, meal prep, or simply when you’re craving something special yet simple.

Why you’ll love this dish

What makes this Slow Cooker Beef Ragu so appealing? For starters, it’s incredible versatility. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday family dinner, this dish delivers a satisfying meal with minimal effort. The combination of lean ground sirloin and spicy or sweet Italian sausage adds depth to the flavor profile while keeping it budget-friendly. It truly is a kid-approved recipe that adults love just as much, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or potlucks. Plus, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal, allowing you to go about your day while your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting.

"This was an excellent dish that my whole family loved! The flavor was rich and comforting, and it was so easy to make!" — Happy Home Cook

The cooking process explained

Preparing this Slow Cooker Beef Ragu is a straightforward process that results in a rich and hearty dish. Start by browning your beef and sausage in a skillet to develop flavors, then move to sautéing your veggies until they’re soft. Finally, combine everything in the slow cooker and let it transform over time. The result? A delicious ragu that’s perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or simply on its own.

What you’ll need

Here’s a quick rundown of essential ingredients for your Slow Cooker Beef Ragu:

  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
  • 1 large celery stalk, diced
  • 3/4 pound ground sirloin beef (90% lean)
  • 1 link of spicy or sweet Italian chicken sausage
  • 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Parmesan rind (optional)
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil

Feel free to swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey for a lighter option, or make it vegetarian by using mushrooms instead of meat!

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