Seriously so lush! My hubby and I couldn't help but get seconds! Nephew asked for seconds too

Slow Cooker Beef Ragu is a heartwarming Italian classic that has been embraced by families around the globe. This slow-cooked dish is steeped in history, hailing from Northern Italy where it is traditionally enjoyed in various forms. The term "ragu" generally refers to a meat-based sauce, which is often served with pasta. Its slow cooking process allows the rich flavors to develop fully, making Slow Cooker Beef Ragu not only an easy dish to prepare but also one that is packed with depth and comforting nuances. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it symbolizes home cooking at its finest, providing a hearty and satisfying meal that can feed a crowd or offer leftovers for days.

When serving Slow Cooker Beef Ragu, you're presented with versatile options. It pairs beautifully with pappardelle or tagliatelle, embracing the thick pasta with its robust sauce. For a gluten-free alternative, polenta offers a creamy base that complements the meat's tenderness, or you might consider a vegetable-based pasta for a lighter take. To complete the meal, a side of crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce, while a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar provides a fresh contrast to the rich ragu. For an authentic Italian experience, finish with a glass of full-bodied red wine.

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs of beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup of red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and brown the beef chunks on all sides. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.

3. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker.

4. Pour the crushed tomatoes and red wine (if using) into the slow cooker. Add tomato paste, oregano, basil, and bay leaves. Stir to combine all ingredients.

5. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is extremely tender.

6. Once the beef is tender, remove the bay leaves and, using two forks, shred the beef chunks into smaller pieces to blend into the sauce.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

8. Serve the beef ragu over your choice of pasta or sides, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Enjoy the rich and indulgent flavor of homemade Slow Cooker Beef Ragu, a meal that promises to take you on a culinary journey through the heart of Italian comfort food.