Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Vegetables
In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned meat, onions, and garlic to the slow cooker.
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, grated carrot, beef broth or red wine, oregano, basil, thyme, and the bay leaf. Stir everything to combine well.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Cook the Bolognese
Cover the slow cooker and cook the Bolognese sauce on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the whole milk or heavy cream (if using) to add creaminess to the sauce.
Step 4: Serve the Bolognese
Once the sauce has thickened and developed rich flavors, remove the bay leaf and discard it.
Serve the Bolognese sauce over your favorite cooked pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Notes
Continued on the next page
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