There’s something truly comforting about a hearty bowl of spaghetti Bolognese. This classic Italian dish, known for its rich and meaty tomato sauce, is a favorite for weeknight dinners and family gatherings alike. By using a slow cooker, you allow all the flavors to deepen and blend over time, transforming a simple meal into something unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese is the perfect solution for a low-effort, high-reward dinner.
Preparation Details
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 6–8 hours (on low) or 3–4 hours (on high)
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Total Time: Up to 8 hours 20 minutes
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Servings: 6
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Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Bolognese Sauce:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 large onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 carrots, peeled and diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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500g (1 lb) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
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1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
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1/2 cup beef broth (or red wine for extra depth)
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1 bay leaf
To Serve:
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400g (14 oz) spaghetti
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Base Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This step adds depth to the final flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef (or meat mixture) to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Transfer to the Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked meat and vegetables to the slow cooker. Add the tomato paste, crushed and diced tomatoes, herbs (oregano, basil), salt, pepper, sugar (if using), beef broth or wine, and the bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The long cooking time allows the flavors to blend beautifully and the sauce to thicken naturally.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
About 15–20 minutes before serving, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove the bay leaf from the Bolognese sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the sauce over hot spaghetti and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese is the perfect dish to make when you want something warm, satisfying, and stress-free. With minimal prep and the convenience of the slow cooker, you can create a flavorful and filling meal that tastes like it’s been simmering on the stove all day. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, relaxed weekends, or when you simply want comfort food with a touch of homemade love. Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp salad for a complete Italian-inspired dinner that your whole family will enjoy.