Italian Meat Sauce (Ragù)

This Italian meat sauce, or “ragù,” is a hearty and rich sauce that’s perfect for pasta, lasagna, or even as a base for other dishes. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite!

Why Make Italian Meat Sauce?

This sauce is a versatile staple in Italian cuisine. It’s great for meal prep and can be made in large batches, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing for later!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 carrot (finely chopped)
• 1 celery stalk (finely chopped)
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with broth)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)
• Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board and knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
• Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

• Add Ground Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef (and pork if using). Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

• Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 2 minutes.
• Deglaze: Pour in the red wine (or broth) and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes to reduce slightly.
• Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

• Cover and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.

Step 5: Serve

• Pair with Pasta: Serve the sauce over your favorite pasta, or use it in lasagna or other dishes.
• Garnish: Top with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Perfect Meat Sauce

• Make Ahead: This sauce tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance.
• Freezing: Freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
• Customize: Feel free to add additional veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or use different herbs for a personalized touch.

Conclusion

This authentic Italian meat sauce is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s rich, hearty, and sure to become a favorite in your household!

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This recipe is designed to be straightforward and engaging, perfect for anyone looking to make a classic Italian dish. Enjoy your cooking!