Introduction to Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the indulgent flavors of Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle. This rich and hearty meal brings together tender chunks of beef, simmered slowly in a robust red wine sauce, and served over wide, luscious pappardelle pasta. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this dish embodies the essence of Italian home cooking, making it a favorite among homemade-food lovers.

Imagine the aroma of savory beef cooking in a medley of fresh vegetables, complemented by the depth of red wine and tangy crushed tomatoes. As the ragu simmers for hours, it develops a flavor profile that’s incredibly satisfying. The wide pappardelle pasta not only holds the ragu beautifully but also adds a delightful texture that enhances each bite.

For young professionals and busy individuals, this recipe is ideal. Although it takes some time to prepare, most of the cooking is hands-off, allowing you to unwind or tackle other tasks. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal after a long day, Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle is sure to deliver a delightful culinary experience that warms the heart and soul.

Key Ingredients

Olive Oil

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): A key ingredient for sautéing that adds a rich flavor to the dish while helping to brown the beef to perfection.

Ground Beef

Ground Beef (2 pounds): The star of the ragu, providing a hearty and satisfying protein base that absorbs the flavors of the sauce as it cooks.

Onion

Onion (1, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the ragu, enhancing the overall flavor profile when sautéed until softened.

Carrots and Celery

Carrots (2, diced) and Celery (2 stalks, diced): These aromatic vegetables contribute to the classic mirepoix base, infusing the ragu with essential flavors and nutrients.

Garlic

Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Provides a robust and aromatic punch that elevates the dish, making it even more irresistible.

Crushed Tomatoes

Crushed Tomatoes (1 can, 28 ounces): Forms the sauce base, adding acidity and sweetness that balances the richness of the beef and wine.

Red Wine

Red Wine (1 cup): Infuses the ragu with depth and complexity while helping to tenderize the beef during the long simmer.

Dried Oregano

Dried Oregano (2 teaspoons): A fragrant herb that complements the beef and tomatoes, bringing a hint of Italian flavor to the dish.

Salt and Black Pepper

Salt (1 teaspoon) and Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in the ragu, ensuring a well-balanced dish.

Pappardelle Pasta

Pappardelle Pasta (1 pound): The perfect pasta choice for this ragu, its wide shape holds the sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying.

Parmesan Cheese

Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Finishing touch that adds creaminess and sharpness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty

When it comes to comfort food, Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle truly stands out. This rich and hearty dish combines tender ground beef with flavorful vegetables and a robust red wine sauce, creating an irresistible meal that warms the heart and soul. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe envelops you in its comforting embrace, making it a go-to choice for cozy dinners.

Simple Yet Impressive

One of the best aspects of this ragu is its simplicity. With straightforward ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish that anyone can master—even busy young professionals. The long simmering time allows the flavors to develop deeply, making it an impressive meal to serve at dinner parties or family gatherings. Your guests will be amazed at the depth of flavor, all while you enjoy a stress-free cooking experience.

Versatile and Freezable

This ragu is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding extra vegetables or spices to suit your tastes. Additionally, it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. This flexibility ensures you always have a comforting meal on hand, ready to be enjoyed at a moment’s notice.

Variations

Different Meats

While this recipe uses ground beef for a traditional ragu, you can easily substitute it with ground lamb or pork for a unique twist. Each type of meat brings its own flavor and richness to the dish, allowing you to customize it to your liking.

Vegetable Additions

Consider adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to your ragu for extra flavor and nutrition. These vegetables not only enhance the taste but also add a lovely texture to the sauce, making your Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle even more satisfying.

Wine Choices

If you’re looking for alternatives to red wine, try using beef broth or a non-alcoholic red wine substitute. This will still provide a rich flavor while accommodating different dietary preferences. Additionally, a splash of balsamic vinegar can add a nice acidity and depth to the ragu.

These variations not only allow for creativity in the kitchen but also ensure that your Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle can be tailored to suit any palate or occasion.

Cooking Tips and Notes

Achieving the Perfect Ragu

To create a truly memorable Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle, patience is key. Allow the ragu to simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours; this slow cooking process tenderizes the beef and melds the flavors beautifully. Don’t rush it! For an even richer taste, try letting the ragu sit overnight in the fridge before serving. This waiting period allows the flavors to deepen and develop further.

Cooking the Pappardelle

When it comes to cooking the pappardelle, timing is crucial. Follow the package instructions closely, but remember to cook the pasta just until al dente; it will continue to cook when mixed with the ragu. Reserve a small amount of the pasta water before draining, as it can be added to the ragu if you need to loosen it slightly before serving.

Flavor Enhancements

Feel free to get creative with your ragu by adding herbs or spices that you love. Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top before serving can add a delightful freshness. Additionally, consider pairing the dish with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad to complete your meal. This dish is not just food; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to the table.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect Pairings

When serving your Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle, consider pairing it with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the ragu. A crisp arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and shaved Parmesan can elevate your meal beautifully.

Bread and Cheese

Crusty Italian bread is another excellent accompaniment. Use it to soak up the delicious sauce left on your plate. Additionally, don’t forget to offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese at the table, allowing guests to add as much as they like for an extra layer of flavor.

Wine Choices

For those who want to enhance the dining experience, serve a glass of the same red wine used in the ragu. This not only complements the dish but also makes for a cohesive tasting experience. A full-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot, works wonderfully.

These serving suggestions ensure that your Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle is nothing short of a culinary delight, making any dinner feel special and inviting.

Time Breakdown

Preparation

The preparation for Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle takes about 15 minutes. This includes chopping the vegetables and gathering all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Cooking

The cooking time is approximately 2 hours, during which the ragu simmers and develops its rich flavors. This slow-cooking method allows the beef to become tender and the sauce to thicken beautifully.

Total

In total, you’ll spend about 2 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish. To make the most of your time, consider prepping your ingredients ahead of time, allowing you to focus on the cooking process.

Nutritional Facts

When you indulge in a serving of Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle, you’re treating yourself to a meal that is both hearty and satisfying. Each serving contains approximately 650 calories, making it a fulfilling choice for dinner.

This dish is rich in protein, offering about 40g per serving, which is essential for muscle maintenance and overall health. With 30g of fat, including 10g of saturated fat, it provides a satisfying richness, while the 60g of carbohydrates ensures you have enough energy for your day. Additionally, it contains 3g of fiber to support digestion and 5g of sugar for a hint of sweetness.

With 100mg of cholesterol and 800mg of sodium, it’s a good idea to enjoy this delicious ragu in moderation. Overall, this balanced nutritional profile makes Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle not just a delightful meal, but a nourishing one as well.

FAQ (based on “People Also Ask” section)

What is Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle?

Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle is a comforting dish featuring ground beef simmered in a rich red wine sauce, served over wide pappardelle pasta. It’s a classic Italian meal that offers both flavor and satisfaction.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time for preparing Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle is about 2 hours and 15 minutes, including approximately 15 minutes for prep and 2 hours for cooking. Most of the cooking time is hands-off, allowing you to focus on other tasks.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This ragu can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months, making it a great option for meal prep.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Beef & Red Wine Ragu with Pappardelle is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures. This dish is perfect for young professionals and homemade-food lovers who appreciate a hearty, home-cooked dinner without spending all day in the kitchen.

With its tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and the delightful pairing of wide pappardelle pasta, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to save this recipe for your next gathering or cozy night in, and let the delightful aromas fill your kitchen. Cook, share, and enjoy this Italian classic!

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