One Pot Beef Ragu Pasta Recipe

One pot beef ragu pasta is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta in a single pot. This streamlined recipe makes it easy to prepare a delicious meal with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. Read on to discover how to make the perfect one pot beef ragu pasta, from ingredients to serving tips.

this Recipes

What is Beef Ragu Pasta?

Beef ragu pasta is an Italian-inspired dish featuring slow-cooked beef in a rich, savory tomato sauce served with pasta. The ragu sauce is typically made with tomatoes, red wine, garlic, and aromatic herbs, creating a deep, flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with the pasta. This one pot version simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to prepare the entire dish in a single pot for maximum convenience.

Ingredients List for One Pot Beef Ragu Pasta

To make the perfect one pot beef ragu pasta, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 1 cup red wine (optional, or substitute with beef broth)
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces pasta (rigatoni, penne, or any short pasta)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

One pot beef ragu pasta is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations to consider:

• Ground Beef: Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a different protein option.
• Vegetables: Add or substitute vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
• Wine: If you prefer not to use wine, simply use an additional cup of beef broth.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make the perfect one pot beef ragu pasta:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• Finely chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.

1. Sauté the Beef:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

1. Cook the Vegetables:

• In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
• Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

1. Deglaze with Wine:

• Pour in the red wine (or beef broth) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the liquid is slightly reduced.

1. Add Tomatoes and Broth:

• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste. Add the dried oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

1. Return Beef to Pot:

• Return the browned beef to the pot and stir to combine.

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the sauce, about 15-20 minutes.

1. Finish the Dish:

• Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

1. Serve:

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.

How to Make One Pot Beef Ragu Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

Sautéing the Beef

Cooking the beef first develops a rich flavor and creates browned bits (fond) on the bottom of the pot, which add depth to the sauce. Cook the beef until it's fully browned and drain any excess fat if necessary.

Cooking the Vegetables

Sautéing the vegetables until softened releases their flavors, which then infuse into the ragu. Cooking them until tender enhances the overall texture of the dish.

Deglazing with Wine

Using red wine to deglaze the pot adds depth and complexity to the ragu. If you prefer not to use wine, beef broth works well as a substitute.

Combining and Cooking

Combining all the ingredients in one pot allows the flavors to meld together as the pasta cooks. Stirring occasionally ensures the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce.

Finishing with Parmesan

Stirring in grated Parmesan cheese adds a creamy, savory finish to the dish. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Cook just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the hot sauce.
2. Not Deglazing: Deglazing the pot with wine or broth is essential for incorporating the browned bits into the sauce, adding depth of flavor.
3. Skipping Seasoning: Season the dish at each step to build layers of flavor.
4. Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: High-quality crushed tomatoes make a significant difference in the richness of the sauce.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation enhances the enjoyment of your one pot beef ragu pasta. Here are some tips:

How to Serve One Pot Beef Ragu Pasta

• Individual Bowls: Serve in individual bowls for a neat and personalized presentation.
• Family Style: Serve directly from the pot for a cozy, communal dining experience.
• With Sides: Pair with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for One Pot Beef Ragu Pasta

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant touch.
• Grated Cheese: Serve with extra grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on the side.
• Use Colorful Bowls: Serve in colorful or patterned bowls to make the dish more visually appealing.

One Pot Beef Ragu Pasta Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables and measure out the ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure the flavors are balanced.
• Use High-Quality Ingredients: High-quality beef, tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese make a significant difference in the flavor of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, one pot beef ragu pasta can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat leftovers in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Q: Can I freeze beef ragu pasta?
A: Yes, you can freeze beef ragu pasta. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: What can I use instead of red wine?
A: If you prefer not to use red wine, simply use an additional cup of beef broth.

Q: How can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to make the dish dairy-free.

Conclusion

One pot beef ragu pasta is a delicious, comforting dish that is perfect for any night of the week. With tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Follow these steps and tips to create a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that everyone will love. Enjoy your homemade one pot beef ragu pasta!

Print