Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce Recipe

A truly authentic Bolognese sauce is all about time, patience, and layering flavors. This Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce Recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rich, hearty, and deeply aromatic meat sauce with minimal effort. Using your slow cooker, you allow tomatoes, aromatics, and ground meat to meld together over hours, creating a sauce that’s silky, savory, and full of umami. Perfect for pasta, lasagna, or even as a base for hearty casseroles, this sauce brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen.

Ingredients List

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ lb ground pork
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics

In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion, celery, and carrots until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

2. Brown the Meat

Add ground beef and pork, cooking until no pink remains. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Combine in Slow Cooker

Transfer meat and vegetables to the slow cooker. Stir in milk and wine, letting the sauce rest for a few minutes.

4. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning

Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

5. Slow Cook

Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.

6. Final Touches

Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.

Cook Time

Total: 6–8 hours
Prep: 15 minutes
Bake: 0 minutes

Servings

Makes approximately 6–8 servings

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

Suggestions

• Use pancetta instead of part of the meat for extra richness.
• Stir in a splash of cream at the end for a silky texture.
• Add finely chopped mushrooms for additional depth.
• Serve over pappardelle, tagliatelle, or use in lasagna layers.

Seasonal Relevance

This slow-cooked Bolognese sauce is ideal for fall and winter, providing warmth and hearty comfort. Its deep flavor and richness also make it a perfect weekend or family meal any time of the year.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce Recipe delivers a rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying meat sauce with minimal effort. Perfect for pasta nights, lasagna, or meal prep, it’s a restaurant-quality dish that fills your home with irresistible aroma and authentic Italian flavor. Once you try this slow-cooked version, it becomes a staple in your kitchen.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this Bolognese sauce without wine?
Yes, replace the wine with extra milk or beef broth for depth without alcohol.

Q2: How do I thicken Bolognese sauce if it’s too watery?
Simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes, or stir in a small amount of tomato paste to reach desired consistency.

Q3: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork?
Yes, it will produce a lighter Bolognese. Adjust cooking time slightly and consider adding a bit of olive oil for richness.