All Purpose Ragu
A hearty, versatile meat sauce rich in tomato and vegetable flavors, perfect for pasta or other dishes, appealing to families and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste, chicken broth, catsup, and sugar.
- Simmer the mixture uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let cool before freezing if not using immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground meats like pork or turkey alongside the beef. You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter version. Adding Italian herbs such as oregano or basil can enhance the taste. Don't forget to drain excess fat from the beef for a healthier dish.
Serving Suggestions
This ragu pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or polenta. You can serve it atop a bed of spaghetti or use it as a filling for lasagna. For a complete meal, consider serving a side salad or garlic bread, and for a comforting touch, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, let the ragu cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of All Purpose Ragu contains roughly 449 calories, with 17g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and protein (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 619mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef. It will change the flavor slightly, but you can enhance it with additional spices or herbs. Make sure to adjust cooking times as turkey may cook quicker than beef.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of the ragu, replace the ground beef with lentils or chopped mushrooms for texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and include more vegetables such as zucchini or carrots for added flavor.
What can I serve with the ragu?
The ragu is versatile and can be served with various sides. It goes well with pasta, rice, or even as a filling for stuffed peppers. For a complete meal, serve with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).