Ragu
A hearty Italian-style meat sauce featuring a rich blend of pork sausage, ground beef, tomato sauce, and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this ragu offers deep, savory flavors that pair beautifully with pasta and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery in olive oil for 15 to 20 minutes until softened.
- Add the pork sausage and cook, crumbling it as it browns.
- Pour in white wine and cook with the lid on loosely for 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Add the tomato sauce, salt to taste, and basil.
- Lightly cover and cook for several more hours until flavors meld.
- Serve the ragu with cooked pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of meats, such as beef and pork, or substituting ground turkey if you prefer a leaner option. Adding a bay leaf or a touch of red pepper flakes can enhance the depth of the sauce. If you don't have white wine, chicken broth can be a good substitute. Always taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ragu over your favorite pasta, such as fettucini, for a classic pairing. It also goes wonderfully with Italian Salad for a refreshing side. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a Zucchini Casserole (Lasagna Type). Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh basil for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ragu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ragu contains roughly 332 calories, with 14g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (119% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1448mg per serving (63% 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 different meats in this ragu?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for pork sausage and hamburger, you can mix in ground turkey, chicken, or even a combination of beef and pork for varied flavors. Just ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly before proceeding with the sauce.
How long can I cook the ragu for best flavor?
For the best flavor, aim to let the ragu simmer for at least 3 hours. This allows the ingredients to meld beautifully. You can also make it a day ahead, as the flavors deepen and improve when reheated.
What pasta works best with this ragu?
While any pasta can work, long shapes like fettucini or pappardelle are especially good at holding onto the chunky ragu. You might also consider pairing it with gnocchi for a comforting twist or serving it over polenta for a delightful alternative.
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).