Slow Cooker Ground Beef in Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1½ cups (360 ml) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ cup (120 ml) beef broth or water

Instructions

1. Brown the beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until lightly browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Add to slow cooker: Transfer the beef to the slow cooker.
3. Add the sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, then add the onion, garlic, tomato paste, beef broth, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
4. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the beef is fully cooked and the flavors have developed.
6. Finish: Stir well before serving. Taste and adjust the seasoning.

Serving Ideas

Serve over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or toasted bread. You can also use it as a filling for tacos or sandwiches.

Tip: For the best texture and flavor, browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker is recommended.