Autumn Vegetable Bolognese in the Slow Cooker

Autumn Vegetable Bolognese in the Slow Cooker is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for chilly days. This slow-cooked version of the classic Italian sauce is packed with seasonal vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and celery, combined with rich ground beef and pork.

The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, while the addition of red wine and fresh herbs gives the sauce a robust, savory depth. Finished with a touch of milk for creaminess, this Bolognese is an ideal pairing for your favorite pasta or as a cozy fall meal.

Autumn Vegetable Bolognese in the Slow Cooker

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1 pound ground beef

1 pound ground pork

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup red wine

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

1 cup beef broth

1 tablespoon tomato paste

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 bay leaf

1/2 cup whole milk

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until they soften, around 5 to 7 minutes.

Add the diced zucchini and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until it softens.

Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, then add the ground beef and pork to the open side. Brown the meats, breaking them apart with a spoon as they cook.

Once the meat is browned, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Pour in the red wine and let it simmer until most of the liquid evaporates.

Transfer the entire mixture to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.

Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors.

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the whole milk and continue cooking.

Remove the bay leaf and sprinkle the chopped parsley on top before serving. Enjoy your rich and hearty Bolognese!

Notes:

Meat Substitutions: You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. This will still provide great flavor but with fewer calories and fat.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the veggie content and nutrition.

Wine Alternatives: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with extra beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.

Slow Cooker Time: For a quicker option, you can cook on high for 4-5 hours instead of low for 6-8 hours, but the low and slow method yields the best, deep flavors.

Creaminess: Whole milk adds a rich, creamy finish, but you can substitute heavy cream for extra richness or omit it if you prefer a lighter sauce.

Make Ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with your favorite pasta like tagliatelle, spaghetti, or even over mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

The flavor will still be delicious, though slightly lighter.

Do I have to use red wine?

No, if you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with extra beef broth or add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for depth of flavor.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or even butternut squash for more variety and nutrition.

How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

You can also freeze the Bolognese for up to 3 months.

Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker to save time?

Yes, you can cook it on high for 4-5 hours instead of low for 6-8 hours, but the low-and-slow method allows the flavors to develop more fully.

Do I need to brown the meat and sauté the vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker?

Browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables enhances the flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and add everything directly to the slow cooker.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the whole milk or substitute it with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk to make the recipe dairy-free.

What type of pasta pairs best with this Bolognese?

Thick, long pasta like tagliatelle, pappardelle, or even spaghetti works best with Bolognese sauce, as it clings to the sauce well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep.

The flavors improve with time, making it a great option to prepare a day or two in advance.

What can I serve with this Bolognese besides pasta?

This Bolognese can be served over mashed potatoes, polenta, or even zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option.

It also pairs well with crusty bread for dipping.