Indulge in the delectable flavors of Italy with our enticing recipe for ragu pasta sauce. This hearty and aromatic sauce, simmered with love, transforms your favorite pasta dish into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice looking to impress your dinner guests, our step-by-step guide will empower you to create a restaurant-worthy sauce that will leave a lasting impression.
A ragu sauce, originating from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, is a slow-cooked meat-based sauce that embodies the essence of comfort food. Traditionally paired with wide, flat noodles like tagliatelle or pappardelle, this sauce showcases the perfect balance of umami-rich meat, tangy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs.
The beauty of a ragu pasta sauce lies in its versatility. While the classic version features ground beef, feel free to experiment with different types of meat, such as pork, lamb, or even venison. Don’t be afraid to play with the seasonings and herbs to create a sauce that reflects your personal taste preferences. So, gather your ingredients, prepare your kitchen, and let’s embark on a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
Ingredients and Equipment
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta of your choice
How To Make Ragu Pasta Sauce
1. Brown the meat: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink and crumbly. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened about 5-7 minutes.
3. Deglaze the pan (optional): If using red wine, pour it into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Cook until the wine has reduced by half, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours, or up to 4 hours for a richer flavor. Stir occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more oregano, basil, salt, or pepper to your liking.
Tips or Possible Variations
Meat variations: Don’t limit yourself to ground beef. Try using ground pork, lamb, or even venison for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable additions: Enhance the sauce by adding chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. These vegetables will add sweetness, texture, and extra nutrition.
Herb and spice variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique flavor. Try adding rosemary, thyme, chili flakes, or even a touch of cinnamon.
Whether you’re serving it over a bed of freshly cooked pasta or using it as a dipping sauce for crusty bread, our ragu pasta sauce is guaranteed to elevate your next meal to new heights. So, gather your loved ones, prepare your taste buds, and let this classic Italian dish create lasting memories around your dinner table.