Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce with Ground Beef 

This Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce with Ground Beef is a rich, comforting dish that combines the deep flavors of slowly simmered beef, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables. The secret to its depth lies in the caramelization of the meat and the toasting of tomato paste, which enhances the sauce's umami profile. Ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, this sauce pairs perfectly with spaghetti, lasagna, or as a base for other Italian dishes.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup olive oil
  
  

• 1 large onion, finely chopped
  
  

• 3 teaspoons coarse salt, divided
  
  

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
  
  

• 1 lb ground beef
  
  

• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
  
  

• 1 medium eggplant, cut into ½-inch pieces (optional)
  
  

• 1 (28 oz) can unsalted pureed tomatoes (or diced tomatoes, pureed)
  
  

Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in the crockpot on the sear setting. Add chopped onion and 1 teaspoon of salt. Cook until the onion starts to soften, then stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
   
   

2. Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the crockpot, breaking it into chunks. Season with an additional ½ teaspoon of salt. Cook until the beef is well browned, stirring occasionally.
   
   

3. Toast Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook until it darkens slightly and becomes fragrant, about 5 minutes.
   
   

4. Add Vegetables and Tomatoes: If using, stir in the diced eggplant. Add the pureed tomatoes and the remaining salt.

5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on the high setting for 4 hours or on the low setting for 6 hours.
   
   

6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add more salt by small pinches as needed until it tastes bright and flavorful.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 300 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 25g
  
  

• Total Fat: 15g
  
  

  • Saturated Fat: 6g
    
    

• Cholesterol: 70mg
  
  

• Sodium: 800mg
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 15g
  
  

  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
    
    

  • Sugars: 8g
    
    

• Iron: 3mg