Classic Beef Ragu Recipe: Rich, Savory, and Perfect for Pasta Night
If you’re craving a dish that’s hearty, savory, and packed with rich flavors, beef ragu is where it’s at. Imagine tender beef simmered in a tomato sauce that’s bursting with garlic, herbs, and a hint of red wine, coating every strand of pasta in deep, complex flavors.
This recipe serves 4, ideal for a family dinner or to enjoy leftovers the next day. Here’s what you’ll need:
1 lb (450g) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup red wine (optional, but highly recommended)
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley and Parmesan for garnish
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear the cubes in the hot oil until browned on all sides. This caramelizes the meat and locks in flavor. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until they’re softened and golden, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen. These veggies are the base of your ragu and will add a touch of sweetness that balances the richness of the sauce.
Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, then let it reduce for a few minutes. This step gives the sauce a deep, complex flavor. If you’re not using wine, you can skip this step and move straight to the tomatoes and beef broth.
Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and the browned beef back to the pot. Bring everything to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 2-3 hours. The beef will become tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully. Stir occasionally and add a little more broth if the sauce gets too thick.
Serve this delicious beef ragu over pasta, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Every bite is comfort in a bowl, perfect for pasta lovers!
How do you like to enjoy your beef ragu? Let’s share ideas and inspire each other to get creative with this classic dish!
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