This Beef Ragu with Pappardelle is a soul-warming Italian dish, slow-cooked to perfection for tender meat and a rich, aromatic sauce. With ingredients like red wine, fresh herbs, and juicy tomatoes, this recipe delivers layers of deep flavor, ideal for sharing with family and friends over a relaxed weekend meal.
Ingredients:
For the Beef Ragu:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into cubes
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup red wine (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
For Serving:
- 1 lb pappardelle pasta (or any wide pasta)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Beef Ragu with Pappardelle Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sear on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Deglaze and Build the Sauce:
- Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (this adds flavor!). Let the wine reduce by half, then stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth.
4. Add the Beef and Herbs:
- Return the beef to the pot and add thyme, rosemary, and a bit more salt and pepper. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to a low simmer.
5. Slow-Cook the Ragu:
- Cover and let the ragu cook for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the sauce is thickened.
6. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water.
7. Combine and Serve:
- Add cooked pasta to the ragu, tossing to coat. Add pasta water as needed for the desired sauce consistency. Serve with freshly grated Parmesan and basil or parsley.
Beef Ragu with Pappardelle Nutritional Information:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 560 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 65g |
| Fiber | 8g |
| Vitamin A | 40% of daily value |
| Iron | 30% of daily value |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich Flavor: The slow-cooked beef is tender and infused with red wine and herbs.
- Perfect for Weekends: Ideal for lazy days when you can let it simmer to perfection.
- Easy to Serve: Just pair with pasta, sprinkle with cheese, and you’re ready to enjoy.
Tips for a Perfect Beef Ragu:
- Use Quality Ingredients: A good cut of beef and quality tomatoes make a difference.
- Simmer Low and Slow: The longer you cook, the richer the flavors.
- Customize Your Pasta: Although pappardelle is traditional, tagliatelle or rigatoni work well too.
Conclusion: A Weekend-Worthy Feast
This Slow-Cooked Beef Ragu is an ideal dish for weekends, where comfort and flavor meet in every bite. With tender beef, a rich sauce, and the perfect pasta, it’s a meal that brings people together. Prepare this recipe, and enjoy the warmth of a true Italian classic.