Introduction

Imagine a cozy evening in the heart of Italy, where the aroma of slow-cooked beef ragu over pappardelle pasta fills the air, promising a comforting and soul-warming meal. In this culinary journey, we delve into the essence of an authentic Italian beef ragu recipe that marries tender beef with rich tomato sauce, served over delicate pappardelle pasta. This recipe is not just a dish but a tradition passed down through generations, embodying the warmth and flavors of Italian cuisine.

Beef ragu over pappardelle pasta is a classic comfort food that transcends time and borders. Its roots in Italian culinary history speak volumes about the simplicity and depth of flavors that define this dish. The slow-cooked beef melts in your mouth, while the pappardelle pasta provides the perfect canvas to soak up the robust ragu sauce, creating a symphony of tastes with each bite.

Whether you are a seasoned home cook or a culinary enthusiast seeking to expand your repertoire, mastering the art of beef ragu pappardelle pasta recipe will elevate your cooking skills and transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed hills of Tuscany. Let’s embark on this gastronomic adventure together and unlock the secrets of creating a memorable meal that celebrates the essence of Italian cuisine.

Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this soulful and hearty dish that embodies tradition, comfort, and culinary finesse. Let’s dive into the world of beef ragu over pappardelle pasta and discover how a few simple ingredients can transform into a masterpiece that will delight your senses and warm your soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Our authentic Italian beef ragu recipe offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will captivate your palate and leave you craving for more. This dish is not only a delicious meal but also a culinary experience that celebrates the art of slow cooking and the joy of savoring each bite.

With this recipe, you can create a gluten-free beef ragu over pappardelle, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions without compromising on taste or quality. The organic beef ragu pappardelle recipe ensures that you are using high-quality, wholesome ingredients that contribute to the overall richness and depth of the dish.

Prepare this make-ahead beef ragu pasta meal for gatherings or quiet nights at home, as it allows you to savor the flavors of Italy with minimal effort on the day of serving. The ease of preparation and the versatility of this dish make it a go-to option for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight meal or planning a dinner party, this beef ragu over pappardelle pasta recipe will impress your guests and become a staple in your culinary repertoire. The hearty flavors, tender beef, and al dente pappardelle will transport you to a rustic Italian trattoria with each forkful.

Ingredients

For the Beef Ragu

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional but highly recommended)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1–2 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Serving

• 1 lb pappardelle pasta
• Fresh basil or parsley
• Freshly grated Parmesan

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven.
Add beef pieces and sear until browned on all sides.
Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery.
Cook 5–7 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook 1 minute.

Step 3: Add Liquids & Seasonings

Return the beef to the pot.
Pour in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and red wine.
Add oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaves.
Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Slow Simmer

Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cover and cook for 2.5–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is fall-apart tender.

Step 5: Shred the Beef

Remove beef pieces with tongs.
Shred with two forks.
Return shredded beef to the sauce and mix until rich and thick.

Step 6: Cook the Pappardelle

Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
Drain and toss pasta with a bit of sauce to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Serve

Top pappardelle with a generous scoop of beef ragu.
Add Parmesan and fresh herbs.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Searing the beef adds deep flavor — don’t skip this step.
• Use a dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet for the best richness.
• If sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth.
• For a smoother texture, mash some veggies into the sauce.
• Letting the ragu rest 10 minutes after cooking deepens flavor even more.

Variations & Substitutions

Slow Cooker Version:
Sear beef → add everything to slow cooker → cook on LOW 8 hours.

Instant Pot Version:
Sauté veggies, add beef, pressure cook 45 minutes, natural release.

Tomato-Free Ragu:
Use beef broth + ½ cup heavy cream + splash of balsamic vinegar.

Vegetable Boost:
Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach during the last 20 minutes.

Gluten-Free:
Serve with gluten-free pasta or creamy polenta.

Storage

• Refrigerate up to 4 days, flavors improve over time.
• Freeze ragu (without pasta) for up to 3 months.
• Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect with:

• Garlic bread or focaccia
• A simple green salad
• Creamy polenta
• Roasted broccoli
• A glass of red wine

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes — short ribs or brisket work beautifully.

Can I skip the wine?
Yes, replace with more beef broth.

Why is my beef not tender?
It needs more simmer time — keep cooking until it falls apart.

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely — ragu tastes even better the next day.

What pasta works best?
Pappardelle is traditional, but tagliatelle or rigatoni also work great.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Ragu Over Pappardelle Pasta is luxurious, comforting, and bursting with deep, slow-cooked flavor. With simple ingredients and reliable steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish that feels both rustic and elegant — perfect for weeknight cravings or special occasions.