Hearty Beef Ragu Pasta in Tomato Sauce

Introduction

This Hearty Beef Ragu Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a quintessential Italian dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. It’s a masterclass in simplicity, using everyday ingredients to create a rich, depthful flavor profile that will leave you and your family craving for more. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease of preparation, making it a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender beef, al dente pasta, and a velvety tomato sauce creates a match made in heaven that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors in this dish is unparalleled, with the acidity of the tomatoes, the richness of the beef, and the subtle sweetness of the onions creating a perfect harmony of tastes.
• The preparation of this recipe is surprisingly easy, requiring minimal effort and time, making it accessible to cooks of all levels.
• The end result is nothing short of impressive, with the slow-cooked beef and the rich tomato sauce coming together to create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as button, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 pound pasta (such as pappardelle or rigatoni)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent and starting to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
2. Step 2: Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Step 4: Add the beef stew meat and cook until it’s browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
5. Step 5: Add the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
6. Step 6: While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
7. Step 7: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
8. Step 8: Serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Handy Tips

• Use a mixture of mushroom varieties for a more complex flavor profile.
• Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook a bit after it’s drained.
• Reserve some of the pasta water to add to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Let the sauce simmer for at least 2 hours to develop a rich and depthful flavor.

Heat Control

The heat control is crucial in this recipe, as it will affect the tenderness of the beef and the thickness of the sauce. Ideally, the sauce should simmer at a low heat, around 180°F to 190°F, for 2 1/2 hours. This will ensure that the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened to a rich and velvety consistency.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the texture of the pasta and the freshness of the parsley. The pasta should be cooked until it’s al dente, which means it still has a bit of bite or chew to it. The parsley adds a fresh and herbaceous note to the dish, and its crunch provides a nice contrast to the softness of the pasta and the sauce.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a Dutch oven to cook the sauce, as it will distribute the heat evenly and prevent the sauce from burning.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot when cooking the pasta, as this can cause it to become sticky and clumpy.
• Use a mixture of grated and shredded cheese for a more complex texture and flavor profile.

Storage Tips

• The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
• The cooked pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat the sauce and pasta separately before combining and serving.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This dish is perfect for gifting to friends and family, especially during the holiday season. Consider packaging the sauce and pasta in separate containers, such as mason jars or airtight containers, and including a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh parsley leaves on top. You can also include a packet of dried basil and oregano for added flavor and aroma.

Flavor Variations

• Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, for a unique flavor profile.
• Add some sautéed spinach or kale for a nutritious and delicious twist.

Troubleshooting

• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of pasta water to thin it out.
• If the beef is not tender, continue to simmer the sauce for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
• If the pasta is overcooked, try using a different type of pasta or adjusting the cooking time.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the sauce? Yes, the sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat before serving.
• Is this dish gluten-free? No, this dish contains gluten due to the presence of pasta. However, you can substitute the pasta with gluten-free alternatives.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe can be doubled or tripled to feed a larger crowd. Simply adjust the cooking time and ingredients accordingly.

Conclusion

This Hearty Beef Ragu Pasta in Tomato Sauce is a classic Italian dish that’s sure to become a staple in your household. With its rich and depthful flavor profile, tender beef, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors and aromas of Italy in the comfort of your own home.