Put raw ground beef in a slow cooker with these 4 ingredients. It’s comfort food perfection.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Set your slow cooker on LOW and cook for 6 to 8 hours.
Alternatively, cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours if you’re short on time.

During cooking, the beef will release its juices, the tomato sauce will thicken, and the broth will infuse every bite with a rich, comforting flavor.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

After cooking, taste the beef mixture and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
If the sauce is too thin for your liking, you can turn the slow cooker to HIGH and cook uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes to reduce it.
Use a spoon to break up any large chunks of beef for a more uniform texture.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile beef mixture is a comfort food powerhouse. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:

Over mashed potatoes: The creamy base perfectly complements the rich beef sauce.
With pasta or rice: Use the beef as a hearty sauce or topping.
In soft sandwich buns: Make sloppy joe-style sandwiches.
Topped with shredded cheese and fresh herbs: For extra indulgence and freshness.

Why This Recipe Works

Simplicity: Only 5 main ingredients create layers of flavor.
Hands-off cooking: Toss it all in and let the slow cooker work.
Comfort: The slow-simmered beef is juicy, tender, and warming.
Versatility: It pairs well with many sides and can be customized with herbs or spices.

Pro Tips

Use fresh garlic and onion for the best flavor punch.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a slurry of cornstarch and water at the end and cook for 10 more minutes.
Freeze leftovers in portions for quick comfort meals later.

Conclusion

Putting raw ground beef in a slow cooker with just four other simple ingredients is a game changer for busy home cooks craving comfort food perfection. This easy method yields rich, tender beef infused with savory tomato and aromatic garlic and onion flavors — a true slow cooker classic you’ll want to make again and again.

Give this recipe a try next time you want a stress-free, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate!