Can I use ground beef instead of short ribs in Slow Cooker Sunday Sauce?

Yes, ground beef can be used as a substitute for short ribs in Slow Cooker Sunday Sauce. It cooks faster and breaks down nicely in the sauce, creating a rich texture. When using ground beef, brown it before adding to the slow cooker to develop flavor. Adjust cooking time to about 4-5 hours on low to avoid overcooking.

How long should I cook Sunday Sauce in a slow cooker?

Slow Cooker Sunday Sauce should be cooked on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the meat, such as short ribs or meatballs, to become tender. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to maintain a steady cooking temperature.

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Sunday Sauce for later use?

Yes, Slow Cooker Sunday Sauce freezes well. After cooking, let the sauce cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.

What pasta types pair best with Sunday Sauce?

Sunday Sauce pairs well with hearty pasta shapes that hold the thick sauce, such as rigatoni, pappardelle, or penne. Traditional spaghetti also works well. Additionally, serving the sauce over creamy polenta is a delicious option that complements the rich flavors.

What kind of red wine is best for making Sunday Sauce?

Dry red wines like Chianti, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon are good choices for Sunday Sauce. These wines add depth and richness without overpowering the sauce. Use about 1 cup in the recipe to enhance the flavor, and allow it to cook down during the slow cooking process.

Slow Cooker Sunday Sauce Recipe For Rich Homemade Flavor

Name: Slow Cooker Sunday Sauce
Prep time: 6 h 30 min
Total time: 6 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: – 5 pounds bone-in beef short ribs; – 2 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes; – 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste; – 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes; – 1 1/2 cups red wine; – 2 carrots, cut into large pieces; – 1 onion; – 1/3 cup pickled jalapeños (optional); – 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning (a blend of dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and sage); – 1/2 to 1 teaspoon chili flakes; – Parmesan rind plus grated parmesan for serving; – 1 head of garlic; – 6 tablespoons salted butter; – Fresh basil for garnish

Description

🍝 Experience rich, slow-cooked flavors with this Crockpot Sunday Sauce recipe, perfect for effortless, hearty homemade meals.
🍅 Enjoy tender beef short ribs and a deeply savory tomato sauce that brings classic Italian comfort to your table with minimal hands-on time.

Ingredients

– 5 pounds bone-in beef short ribs

– 2 cans (28 ounces each) whole peeled tomatoes

– 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste

– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes

– 1 1/2 cups red wine

– 2 carrots, cut into large pieces

– 1 onion

– 1/3 cup pickled jalapeños (optional)

– 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning (a blend of dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and sage)

– 1/2 to 1 teaspoon chili flakes

– Parmesan rind plus grated parmesan for serving

– 1 head of garlic

– 6 tablespoons salted butter

– Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1-First, season the short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them on both sides in a hot skillet for a nice crust. This step boosts the flavor before transferring them to the slow cooker.

2-Next, add the whole peeled tomatoes, tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, red wine, carrots, onion, pickled jalapeños, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chili flakes to the pot and stir everything together.

3-Once mixed, toss in the parmesan rind and whole head of garlic, then cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or high for 5 to 6 hours. During the last hour, remove the garlic head to prepare the next part. Squeeze the garlic cloves from their skins and mash them with butter in a skillet over medium heat until it browns slightly.

4-Finally, take out the parmesan rind, shred the short ribs, and mix the meat back into the sauce along with the garlic butter. Serve it hot over pasta or polenta, topped with fresh basil and grated parmesan. For more ideas on pasta dishes, explore our mac and cheese meatloaf casserole recipe, which pairs well with hearty sauces like this one.

5-If you prefer the oven method, preheat it to 325°F (163°C) and sear the ribs in a Dutch oven first. Add all the sauce ingredients except butter, cover, and roast for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Follow the same steps for garlic and finishing as in the slow cooker version.

Notes

🔥 Searing the ribs before slow cooking builds deeper flavor.
🧀 Adding parmesan rind to the sauce enriches the taste and texture.
🧄 Roasting garlic in the sauce and mixing it into browned butter intensifies the savory flavor.

Additional Tips:
🍝 Substitute meatballs or ground beef for short ribs if desired.
🥖 Serve with crusty bread and fresh salad for a classic Italian meal.
❄️ This sauce freezes well for future easy meals.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 6 hours
Category: Main Dish, Sauce
Method: Slow cooking, Roasting, Searing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 1047

Keywords: Crockpot Sunday Sauce, Slow Cooker Sauce, Beef Short Ribs Sauce, Italian Sunday Sauce