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    The Curry Mommy » Beef Recipes

    Ragu Spaghetti Meat Sauce

    Published: May 11, 2020 · Modified: Oct 26, 2021 by The Curry Mommy · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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    Jump to Recipe

    Ragu spaghetti sauce made with ground meat

    This ground meat sauce is a delicious hearty ragu pasta spaghetti sauce that is comforting and delicious! The key to making a delicious minced meat sauce recipe is low and slow cooking according to my Italian neighbor.

    Pasta dish with thick meat sauce.

    SO YUM! A comforting meat sauce with al dente spaghetti is something I have always loved.


    Jump to:
    • Ingredients
    • Instructions
    • Top Tips
    • Whats the Key?
    • Variations
    • More Pasta Recipes...
    • Let's Talk Cheese!
    • 📖 Recipe
    • FAQ
    • 💬 Community

    Contrary to what I grew up knowing, an authentic Italian meat sauce is the true meaning of Ragu and not just the pasta sauce company. I am definitely thankful for some amazing neighbors who knew real Italian food and shared their ways with me growing up, because this is a go-to in our home.


    Ingredients

    • ground meat (beef, turkey, or alternative)
    • arrabiata pasta sauce (or your favorite)
    • Cento Brand crushed tomatoes (substitute with San Marzano Brand)
    • fresh grated garlic
    • parmigiano reggiano (fresh grated)
    • spaghetti
    • water, oil, salt, black pepper
    • dried oregano
    • baking soda
    • red pepper flakes

    Instructions

    See the recipe card for directions


    Top Tips

    1. Cook on low heat for about 1-2 hours to get the best results
    2. Add extra red chili flakes for more spice
    3. Cheese is a must have for this recipe!

    Whats the Key?

    A very slow simmer! Who would have thought slow-cooking ground meat would change the flavor of a sauce? If you are in a hurry to have dinner, then this is definitely not a go-to meal. If you want to hang out and have some drinks, call some friends, or have a dance party with your kids pre-dinner, then this needs to be on the menu pronto!


    Variations

    • Kid Friendly- Use pasta sauce that is kid-friendly and no chili flakes.
    • Vegetarian- Use soy grounds instead of meat (I do not recommend using a vegetable based ground. In my experience soy has worked best)

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    Let's Talk Cheese!

    The debate will be never-ending when it comes to Parmigiano Reggiano vs pecorino romano. One is a bit tangier than the other and for that reason, I would go with Parmigiano Reggiano for this dish. It has a milder flavor which I think pairs well with the slow-cooked meat.

    Pasta dish with thick meat sauce.

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    📖 Recipe

    Pasta dish with thick meat sauce.

    Ragu Meat Sauce

    The Curry Mommy
    A comforting meat sauce that is simmered to tender perfection and pairs well with all pasta variations.
    5 from 5 votes
    Pin Recipe Print Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
    Total Time 2 hours hrs 35 minutes mins
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine Italian

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, or alternative)
    • 12 oz arrabiata pasta sauce (or your favorite)
    • 1 12oz can crushed San Marzano tomatoes
    • 3 cloves fresh grated garlic
    • ¼ cup parmigiano reggiano
    • 12 oz package of uncooked spaghetti
    • 8 oz water
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • pinch baking soda
    • oil
    • salt
    • black pepper
    • water for boiling
    • red pepper flakes

    Instructions
     

    • Heat some oil in a sauce pan and add the ground meat. Sprinkle a pinch of baking soda and add the water.
    • Continue to break up the meat.
    • Season with salt, oregano, garlic, and black pepper.
    • Add the pasta sauce.
    • Let it come to a boil but continue to break the meat if necessary.
    • Turn the heat down to the lowest setting and let it cook for about 2 hours while continuing to stir every once in a while.
    • At this point you can make the spaghetti.
    • Boil salted water in a large pot.
    • Once it reaches a boil, add the spaghetti and cook to your texture liking. Strain and set it aside.
    • Once the sauce has simmered you can mix the pasta and sauce together or have a "make your own bowl" dinner.
    • Don't forget to top the spaghetti with some parmigiano reggiano and red pepper flakes.

    Notes

    • Make it a low carb friendly meal by using zucchini noodles or almond pasta. 
    Tried this recipe?Share your photo and tag @TheCurryMommy or #thecurrymommy!

    FAQ

    What kind of spaghetti should I use for meat sauce spaghetti?

    I recommend using semolina-based spaghetti for a more authentic taste that is cooked al-dente.

    How can I make keto-friendly spaghetti?

    For this recipe, you can use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

    Do I have to cook the sauce for 2 hours?

    You do not, but for optimal results I recommend it.

    What kind of wine pairs well with spaghetti?

    I would recommend a white wine with this dish since it is spicy.


    Pasta dish with thick meat sauce.

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