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Slow Cooker Beef Bolognese with Penne
Introduction and Origin
Slow Cooker Beef Bolognese with Penne is a modern twist on the classic Italian Bolognese, made for convenience and comfort. Traditionally, Bolognese sauce, or ragù alla bolognese, hails from Bologna, Italy, and is known for its deep, meaty flavor and slow-simmered richness. By adapting this time-honored dish to a slow cooker, we preserve its rich depth while making it more accessible for busy home cooks.
Cultural Significance
Bolognese sauce is a symbol of northern Italian culinary heritage, especially in Emilia-Romagna. It reflects the Italian value of patience in cooking and the importance of layering flavors. In American and global kitchens, this dish has evolved into a comforting staple, often associated with warmth, family dinners, and the essence of homemade love.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1½ lbs (680g) lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to cut acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta, cooked al dente
- Fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
Optional Additions
- Ground pork or Italian sausage: For richer flavor
- Red wine: Replace part of the broth for a deeper sauce
- Grated carrots or celery: Classic in authentic Bolognese
- Heavy cream or milk: Stirred in at the end for extra silkiness
- Mushrooms: Add umami and texture
- Bay leaf: Simmered with sauce for subtle aroma
Tips for Success
- Brown the meat first before adding it to the slow cooker—this seals in flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; boil it separately and stir in just before serving.
- Cook on low for 6–8 hours for maximum depth.
- Use a splash of milk or cream to mellow the acidity of tomatoes if needed.
- Stir occasionally (if your slow cooker allows) for even cooking and better flavor distribution.
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and onions. Cook until browned and onions are soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Transfer to slow cooker: Add the cooked beef mixture to the slow cooker. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, sugar (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
- Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, stirring once or twice if possible.
- Cook pasta: About 15 minutes before serving, cook penne pasta separately according to package directions. Drain well.
- Combine and serve: Stir cooked pasta into the Bolognese sauce. Let it sit for a few minutes to soak in the flavors. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan.
Description
This dish offers fork-tender beef bathed in a rich, herbed tomato sauce, nestled into perfectly cooked penne pasta. The slow cooker works its magic to create layers of savory, comforting depth, making every bite satisfyingly hearty. Finished with fresh herbs and cheese, it’s rustic elegance in a bowl.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving; serves 6)
- Calories: ~480
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Iron: 20% DV
- Calcium: 8% DV
(Values vary depending on meat type and added toppings)
Conclusion and Recommendation
Slow Cooker Beef Bolognese with Penne is the perfect hands-off, flavor-packed meal that feels like a cozy Italian hug. It’s ideal for weeknights, family meals, or casual dinner parties. This recipe pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and garlic bread.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While rich in flavor, this dish can be made lighter without losing its appeal. Use lean beef or ground turkey, swap regular pasta for whole wheat, and load up on finely diced veggies for added fiber. The result? A dish that nourishes the body while comforting the soul—balanced, satisfying, and joyfully indulgent.
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