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Easy Beef Ragu Recipe

Irresistibly Comforting Easy Beef Ragu Recipe for Family Dinners

This Easy Beef Ragu Recipe transforms humble cuts of beef into a tender, flavorful sauce, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat
  • 3 pounds Chuck Roast Well-marbled for richness
  • 4 ounces Pancetta or Bacon Adds depth of flavor
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Optional for added texture
For the Vegetables
  • 1 large Yellow Onion Provides a sweet base
  • 2 medium Carrots Diced for natural sweetness
  • 2 stalks Celery Adds depth and aroma
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced for essential flavor
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano) Aromatic layers of flavor
  • 1 cup Red Wine Enhances depth and complexity
  • 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes Balances rich meat flavors
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Optional for a richer sauce
  • 2 cups Beef Stock/Broth Essential for flavor enhancement
  • 1 cup Whole Milk or Heavy Cream Adds creaminess
For Seasoning and Garnishing
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt Adjust according to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to taste
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil For browning ingredients
  • 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese Grated, for topping
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Chopped for optional garnish

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a heavy Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chuck roast and pancetta for 4-5 minutes on each side.
  2. Once browned, set the meat aside and sauté onions, carrots, and celery in the same pot for 8-10 minutes.
  3. Pour in red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits, and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef stock, and fresh herbs to the pot, then simmer on low for 2-3 hours.
  5. Remove the beef, shred it, and return it to the pot. Adjust seasoning and let it meld for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Allow the ragu to rest overnight for deepened flavors; it improves immensely after a night of chilling.

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