Slow Cooker Peppered Beef with Pasta

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Slow Cooker Peppered Beef with Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or comforting family dinners. The tender, slow-cooked beef is infused with black pepper and savory seasonings, served over pasta for a satisfying, one-pot meal. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen.

1. Ingredients for Slow Cooker Peppered Beef with Pasta

Main Ingredients:

  • Beef Chuck Roast – 2 lbs, trimmed and cut into large chunks
  • Pasta – 12 oz (e.g., penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
  • Beef Broth – 2 cups
  • Onion – 1 large, sliced
  • Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
  • Tomato Paste – 2 tablespoons
  • Crushed Tomatoes – 1 can (14 oz)
  • Heavy Cream – 1/2 cup (optional, for creaminess)

Seasonings:

  • Black Pepper – 1 1/2 teaspoons, freshly ground
  • Salt – to taste
  • Paprika – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Worcestershire Sauce – 1 tablespoon
  • Bay Leaf – 1

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

2. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

  1. Pat the beef chunks dry with paper towels.
  2. Season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Beef (Optional)

  1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
  2. Sear the beef on all sides until browned (about 2–3 minutes per side). This step adds depth of flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

Step 3: Assemble the Slow Cooker

  1. Add the onion slices and garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Place the beef chunks on top.
  3. Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and the bay leaf. Stir lightly to combine.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Beef

  1. Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

  1. About 20 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

  1. Remove the bay leaf and shred the beef in the slow cooker using two forks.
  2. Stir in heavy cream (if using) for a richer sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper, if needed.

Step 7: Serve

  1. Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce or serve the sauce over the pasta.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

3. Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Peppered Beef with Pasta

3.1 Choose the Right Cut of Beef

  • Chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking because it becomes tender and flavorful after hours of cooking.

3.2 Adjust the Spice Level

  • Increase or decrease the amount of black pepper to suit your taste. Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.

3.3 Make It Creamy

  • For a luxurious sauce, stir in heavy cream or sour cream at the end.

3.4 Enhance the Flavor

  • Add a splash of red wine to the slow cooker for deeper flavor.

4. Flavor Variations

4.1 Italian-Style Beef Pasta

  • Add Italian seasoning, chopped olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.

4.2 Spicy Cajun Beef

  • Replace paprika with Cajun seasoning and add diced bell peppers.

4.3 Mushroom Beef Pasta

  • Toss in sliced mushrooms during the last 2 hours of cooking for an earthy flavor.

5. Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes:

  • Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
  • Green Salad: A refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli or carrots for a complete meal.

6. Storing and Reheating

Refrigeration:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

  • Freeze the beef and sauce (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating:

  • Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. Cook fresh pasta to serve.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of beef?

Yes, short ribs or beef stew meat are great alternatives.

2. Can I skip searing the beef?

Yes, but searing adds a richer flavor to the dish.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Skip the heavy cream or use a plant-based alternative like coconut cream.

4. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, any sturdy pasta like rigatoni, penne, or even spaghetti works well.

5. What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

Soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can be used as a substitute.

6. Can I add vegetables?

Yes, carrots, celery, or mushrooms can be added during cooking for extra nutrition.

7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and check labels on broth and Worcestershire sauce.

8. How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes.

9. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes, simmer the ingredients in a large pot on low heat for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.

10. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel complements the rich flavors perfectly.

This Slow Cooker Peppered Beef with Pasta is a comfort food classic with tender beef, robust sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s simple, satisfying, and ideal for busy days or cozy dinners. Enjoy!

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