Experience the deep and complex flavors of traditional Italian cooking with this Rigatoni Bolognese. This dish features a hearty meat sauce made with ground beef and pork, slow-simmered with red wine, vegetables, and a blend of herbs to create a robust, flavorful Bolognese that perfectly coats each piece of pasta. It’s a satisfying meal that’s ideal for a family dinner or when you have guests over and want to impress with your culinary skills.
A Hearty, Flavorful Feast
This Rigatoni Bolognese is a labor of love, combining simple ingredients that simmer together to develop a richness and depth of flavor that can only be achieved over time. The addition of red wine enhances the meaty flavors, while the herbs add a subtle complexity that makes this dish stand out. It’s a perfect example of how a few ingredients, when combined and cooked properly, can create a meal that’s both comforting and gourmet.
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: About 1 hour
- Serving: 6 people
- Equipment: Large pot, skillet
Rigatoni Bolognese Recipe:
Delve into the layers of flavor in this classic Italian pasta dish that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
- 1 cup red wine
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Directions:
- Cook Pasta: Start by cooking the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until they are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef and pork to the pot. Cook until the meat is thoroughly browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the red wine, allowing it to simmer until the liquid has reduced by half. This process will help to intensify the flavors.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Add the dried basil and oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if time allows. This slow cooking process helps develop a deeper flavor profile.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked rigatoni with the Bolognese sauce, ensuring each piece of pasta is well-coated. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
A Culinary Delight
Enjoy the rich and satisfying taste of this Rigatoni Bolognese with family and friends. It’s a fulfilling dish that pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad and a glass of red wine for a truly Italian dining experience. Each bite offers a comforting embrace of flavors, perfect for any occasion that calls for a hearty, delicious meal.
