

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food, look no further. This Pappardelle pasta with slow-cooked beef mince ragu is the hearty, flavour-packed dish your dinner table has been waiting for. Rich, tender beef cooked low and slow in a deeply savoury tomato sauce, tangled with ribbons of perfectly al dente pappardelle—it’s a recipe that brings pure joy with every bite.
Whether you’re planning a cosy family meal or a special dinner for two, this recipe ticks all the boxes. And the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
What is Pappardelle?
Pappardelle is a wide, flat pasta originating from Tuscany. Its broad ribbons are perfect for catching robust, meaty sauces like ragu. If you’ve only ever tried spaghetti or penne, you’re in for a real treat—pappardelle takes pasta night to the next level especially when paired with beef mince ragu.
Why Slow-Cooked Beef Mince Ragu?
There’s something magical about slow-cooked dishes. The flavours develop depth and richness over time, transforming everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. This beef mince ragu is a humble classic that delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.
Made with seasoned beef mince, aromatic vegetables, red wine, and crushed tomatoes, this ragu simmers gently until the meat is meltingly tender and infused with layers of Italian-inspired flavour, perfect for Pappardelle Pasta with a classic slow-cooked beef mince ragu recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Hearty and satisfying
✅ Packed with rich, meaty flavour
✅ Perfect for meal prep and freezing
✅ A true Italian classic you can make at home
✅ Easily customisable for dietary needs
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:

Pappardelle Pasta with Slow-Cooked Beef Mince Ragu
Ingredients
- 400 g pappardelle pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 500 g beef mince
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp tomato purée
- 400 g chopped tomatoes
- 250 ml beef stock
- 125 ml red wine (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh rosemary sprigs, for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan, to serve
Instructions
Prepare the Base
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Cook gently for 8-10 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.
Brown the Beef
- Increase the heat slightly, add the beef mince, and cook until browned all over. Use a wooden spoon to break up any clumps as it cooks.
Add Flavour
- Stir in the dried oregano and tomato purée. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavours to combine.
Build the Sauce
- Pour in the chopped tomatoes, beef stock, and red wine (if using). Add the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Slow Cook
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the ragu simmer gently for 2 hours. Stir occasionally and check to ensure it’s not sticking. Add a splash of water if needed.
Cook the Pasta
- About 10 minutes before the ragu is ready, bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Add the pappardelle and cook according to the packet instructions (usually 8-10 minutes). Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
Combine
- Remove the bay leaf from the ragu. Toss the drained pappardelle into the sauce, adding a little of the reserved pasta water if needed to coat the pasta evenly.
Serve
- Divide the pasta and ragu between four bowls. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Pappardelle Pasta with the rich beef mince ragu, pair it with sides and accompaniments that complement the deep, savoury flavours of the dish. Here are some delicious and easy-to-make serving suggestions to transform your meal into an unforgettable Italian-inspired dining experience.
A bowl of beef mince ragu pasta practically begs for a side of warm, crusty bread. Choose a rustic sourdough loaf or a freshly baked Italian ciabatta to soak up the delicious, slow-cooked ragu sauce. Even better? Serve it with homemade garlic bread made with fresh parsley, crushed garlic, and a generous spread of salted butter. The crispy outside and soft, buttery centre offer a satisfying contrast to the silky pasta.
Lighten the meal with a fresh rocket and Parmesan salad. Toss peppery rocket leaves with shaved Parmesan, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of sea salt for a zesty bite that cuts through the richness of the ragu. Alternatively, go for a classic Caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
These salads not only add vibrant colour to your plate but also balance the hearty pasta with freshness and acidity.
A final flourish of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or Grana Padano takes your pappardelle ragu to the next level. These aged cheeses add umami and a nutty sharpness that enhances the rich ragu sauce. For a dairy-free option, try a vegan hard cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavour.
You can also drizzle a little truffle oil or chilli oil over the top for a gourmet twist. Finish with a handful of chopped parsley or fresh basil to bring freshness and colour to the dish.
Complete your Italian dinner experience with a traditional dessert. A creamy, coffee-soaked tiramisu, a silky vanilla panna cotta, or a scoop of authentic Italian gelato are all perfect endings to your meal. These sweet treats offer a cool, indulgent contrast to the savoury pasta dish and round off the evening on a high note.
If you’re looking for something quick, try chocolate-dipped biscotti or affogato (vanilla ice cream with a shot of espresso).
The Ultimate Italian Meal Awaits
With the right sides and thoughtful pairings, your Pappardelle Pasta with Slow-Cooked Beef Mince Ragu Recipe can become more than just dinner—it becomes an experience. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a romantic date night, these serving suggestions bring out the very best in your dish.
Looking for more Italian dinner ideas or classic pasta recipes? Don’t forget to explore our blog for culinary inspiration straight from the heart of Italy.