Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce with Beef and Pork

Savor Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce with Beef and Pork, a rich, hearty meat sauce with tender beef, pork, and savory tomatoes. This effortless crockpot meal is perfect for cozy pasta dinners, delivering authentic Italian flavors with minimal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce with Beef and Pork is a luxurious, deeply flavorful sauce that transforms ground beef and pork into a tender, rich ragù, perfect for pasta, lasagna, or polenta. This budget-friendly recipe is incredibly easy, with the slow cooker melding classic Italian flavors effortlessly, requiring minimal effort and cleanup. Its versatility allows for serving and spice tweaks, making it a family favorite. Packed with protein and savory depth, this bolognese pairs beautifully with tagliatelle, spaghetti, or crusty bread, offering a wholesome, restaurant-quality meal that’s as delicious as it is simple to prepare.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Brown Meat First: Sauté beef and pork for deeper flavor before adding to the slow cooker.
• Use Low Heat: Cook on low for a silky, well-melded sauce texture.
• Deglaze Pan: Add wine or broth to the skillet to capture browned bits.
• Adjust Consistency: Simmer sauce at the end if too thin; add broth if too thick.
• Finish with Milk: Stir in milk at the end for traditional creaminess.
• Use a Liner: Place a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Yield: 8 Servings

Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce with Beef and Pork

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Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce with Beef and Pork, a rich, hearty crockpot sauce perfect for pasta dinners.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup dry red wine
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed San Marzano tomatoes
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 2 medium carrots, finely diced
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Optional garnish: Parmesan, extra basil

Instructions

1. Brown Meat: Heat a large skillet over medium; cook beef and pork for 8-10 minutes until browned, breaking up clumps.
2. Drain Fat: Remove excess fat from skillet, leaving 1 tbsp for flavor.
3. Sauté Veggies: Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic; cook for 5 minutes until softened.
4. Deglaze Pan: Pour in red wine, scraping browned bits; simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Layer Crockpot: Transfer meat and veggie mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
6. Add Tomatoes: Pour crushed tomatoes over the meat, stirring to combine.
7. Season Sauce: Add salt, pepper, and half the basil; stir gently.
8. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until flavors meld.
9. Finish with Milk: Stir in milk during the last 30 minutes for creamy richness.
10. Serve with Flair: Toss with pasta, garnish with Parmesan and basil, and enjoy this luxurious sauce!

Notes

• Browning meat enhances flavor but can be skipped; raw meat will cook through in the slow cooker.
• Use San Marzano tomatoes for authentic taste; crush whole tomatoes if needed.
• Leftovers freeze beautifully and taste even better the next day.
• Serve with tagliatelle, spaghetti, or use in lasagna for a complete Italian meal.

Nutrition Information

Yield

8

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 363Total Fat 22gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 106mgSodium 273mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 1gSugar 2gProtein 31g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

• Ground Beef: 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for richness; leaner for healthier option.
• Ground Pork: Adds sweetness and tenderness; Italian sausage for extra spice.
• San Marzano Tomatoes: Provide authentic flavor; regular canned tomatoes can substitute.
• Onion: Yellow onion builds a savory base; shallots offer milder flavor.
• Carrots: Fresh carrots add natural sweetness; finely dice for even texture.
• Celery: Enhances savory depth; ensure freshness for optimal flavor.
• Red Wine: Adds depth and acidity; beef broth for alcohol-free.
• Milk: Whole milk tenderizes and enriches; cream for extra luxury.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Use all beef, turkey, or veal; adjust fat content accordingly.
• Veggie Add-Ins: Include mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; serve with gluten-free pasta.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and tomatoes for a lighter dish.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chili for a subtle heat boost.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms for a plant-based version.
• Herb Variations: Swap basil for oregano or thyme for different flavor profiles.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm with a splash of water or broth to restore consistency.
• Meal Prep: Portion with pasta or freeze sauce alone for quick meals.

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