Why Make This Recipe

Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that warms the heart and satisfies the appetite. This pasta dish combines rich flavors from ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a great way to enjoy comforting home-cooked food with minimal effort.

How to Make Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese

Ingredients

12 oz pappardelle pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper, to taste
1/2 cup beef broth or red wine (optional for richness)
Parmesan, parsley & basil for garnish

Directions

Sauté onions in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Stir in ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, broth (or wine), and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.
Cook pappardelle until al dente, then toss with the sauce.
Serve hot with fresh Parmesan, chopped parsley, and a basil leaf.

How to Serve Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese

Serve your Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese in bowls, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley and basil for extra flavor. You can pair it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Store Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container, and it will last for about 3 months. Reheat in a saucepan on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Tips to Make Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese

Make sure not to rush the simmering process. A longer simmer helps deepen flavors.
Feel free to add in chopped vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition.
Use high-quality tomatoes for the sauce, as they significantly impact the flavor.

Variation

You can switch up the meat by using ground turkey or pork if you prefer. Also, adding a splash of cream at the end can create a richer sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta types like tagliatelle or fettuccine, but pappardelle holds the sauce nicely.

Is there a vegetarian version of Bolognese?
Absolutely! You can replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cook the pasta fresh before serving.