🍝 Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese: The Easiest Way to Italian Comfort

Why Use a Slow Cooker for Bolognese?

The slow cooker does more than save time—it develops flavor. Cooking low and slow allows the ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork) to break down tenderly while the vegetables soften and melt into the tomato sauce. Unlike quick stovetop versions, the flavors have hours to mingle, creating a deep, savory sauce that clings beautifully to spaghetti. Plus, it’s hands-off, making it perfect for busy days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 500 g (1 lb) ground beef or beef-pork mix
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) tomato sauce or passata
• 1 cup beef broth (or red wine for richness)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for browning)
• 400 g (14 oz) spaghetti, cooked al dente
• Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, for serving

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. This step ensures a rich, caramelized flavor. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. This classic Italian soffritto base builds depth in the sauce.

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Place the browned meat and vegetables into the slow cooker. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth (or wine), oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.

Step 4: Let the Slow Cooker Work Its Magic

Cover and cook:

• On Low: 6–8 hours
• On High: 3–4 hours
  During this time, the sauce thickens and flavors intensify. Stir occasionally if you’re nearby, but it’s not essential.

Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti

Near serving time, cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Remove the bay leaf from the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
Spoon the rich, meaty Bolognese sauce over hot spaghetti. Finish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of basil.

Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Bolognese

1. For deeper flavor – replace part of the broth with red wine.
2. Want it creamier? – stir in a splash of milk or cream before serving.
3. Batch cooking – this sauce freezes beautifully. Store portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
4. Pasta upgrade – serve with tagliatelle or pappardelle for a more authentic Italian feel.

The Comfort of Tradition Made Simple

Spaghetti Bolognese has long been a symbol of family, comfort, and gathering around the table. By using the slow cooker, you preserve all the depth of flavor while saving hours of labor. The result? A warm, hearty Italian dish that practically makes itself.

So, next time you’re craving Italian comfort, let your slow cooker take the lead. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a soul-soothing Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese waiting to welcome you home.

Would you like me to also create a shorter version formatted like a recipe card (ingredients + quick instructions) that you could use for printing or saving?