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Healthy Slow Cooker Beef Ragu (Easy Weeknight Meal)

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  • Author: Mollyyeh
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

A hearty and healthy slow cooker beef ragu made with tender shredded beef in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner served over pasta or vegetables.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 pounds beef chuck roast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Cooked pasta or spiralized vegetables, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season beef with salt and pepper, then sear on all sides until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  2. Add onion and garlic to the same skillet and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and beef broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily.
  5. Shred the beef using two forks, then stir it back into the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Serve over cooked pasta or vegetables and garnish with chopped parsley.

Notes

  • You can make this dish ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
  • Use lean cuts of beef to keep the dish healthier.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg