Slow Cooker > Italian

Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Special equipment needed:
- Slow cooker

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and ground pork over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to a slow cooker.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve over cooked pasta.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Temperature:
Low or high setting on slow cooker
Serving size:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 489
- Fat: 31g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 36g
- Sodium: 1171mg
- Sugar: 8g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef and pork.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted for the beef broth.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted for the dried herbs.

Variations:
- Add chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers to the slow cooker for added nutrition.
- Use this sauce as a base for lasagna or stuffed shells.
- Add a splash of red wine for added depth of flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Browning the meat before adding it to the slow cooker adds extra flavor.
- Use a slow cooker liner for easy cleanup.
- Freeze any leftover sauce for a quick and easy meal in the future.

Storage instructions:
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the sauce on the stove over medium heat until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the sauce over cooked pasta and garnish with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

Garnishes:
Fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese

Pairings:
Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.

Suggested side dishes:
Side salad and garlic bread

Troubleshooting advice:
If the sauce is too thin, simmer it on the stove until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Food safety advice:
Make sure the meat is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
Bolognese sauce originated in Bologna, Italy and is traditionally made with ground beef, pancetta, onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and milk.

Flavor profiles:
Rich, savory, and slightly spicy

Serving suggestions:
Serve over cooked pasta with a side salad and garlic bread.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Rich, Hearty, Tangy, Herbal, Meaty