After all the compliments last year, this one’s now called ‘Grandma’s Christmas Crown.’ It’s that good!

Directions

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef and pork to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture to the slow cooker.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. Serve the bolognese sauce over the cooked rigatoni and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Variations & Tips

For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and pork. If you have picky eaters, try blending the vegetables into the sauce for a smoother texture. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or a splash of cream at the end for a richer sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use lentils or mushrooms in place of the meat.