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Here’s a detailed, unique article on making Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese, with a step-by-step guide:

Slow Cooker Spaghetti Bolognese: Comfort in Every Bite

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian-inspired dish loved around the world for its rich, meaty sauce and tender pasta. While traditional recipes require hours of simmering on the stove, a slow cooker transforms this beloved meal into a hands-off experience, allowing flavors to meld beautifully with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting friends, or meal-prepping for the week, this slow cooker version is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this slow cooker spaghetti Bolognese, gather the following:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1 large carrot, finely diced
1 celery stalk, finely diced
1 can (400 g) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 cup (120 ml) beef or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup (60 ml) red wine (optional)
Olive oil, for sautéing
Spaghetti, cooked according to package instructions
Freshly grated Parmesan, for serving

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Wash and finely chop the onion, carrot, and celery. Mince the garlic. This combination, known as soffritto, forms the aromatic base of your Bolognese sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Meat (Optional but Recommended)

Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
This step adds depth of flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it and place raw meat directly in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, sauté the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic for 3–5 minutes until softened.
This unlocks their natural sweetness, giving the sauce a rich flavor.