A rustic and comforting Italian pasta dish made with a slow-cooked meat sauce and tender pappardelle noodle perfect for cozy family dinners or Sunday meals!
Ingredients for Pappardelle with Classic Bolognese Sauce
For the Bolognese:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb ground beef
¼ cup tomato paste
1 cup whole milk
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pinch of ground nutmeg
Optional: bay leaf or sprig of thyme for added flavor
For the Pasta:
12 oz pappardelle pasta (fresh or dry)
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, optional, for garnish
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 8–10 minutes until soft and golden. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Brown the Meat
Add ground beef . Cook until the meat is browned. Season with salt and pepper.
Create the Sauce
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to develop depth. Add whole milk and crushed tomatoes. Stir until fully combined.
Simmer Gently
Add a pinch of nutmeg and optional herbs. Let the sauce simmer uncovered on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally until thick and rich.
Cook the Pasta
Boil pappardelle in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss into the Bolognese sauce, coating well.
Serve and Enjoy
Top with freshly grated Parmesan and herbs. Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate Italian comfort dish!
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