Craving a cozy, satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and homemade? Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese ticks all the boxes. This classic Italian dish combines rich, slow-cooked flavors with the wide, ribbon-like pappardelle pasta that absorbs every drop of the savory sauce. Whether you’re cooking a weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients for Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese
Here’s everything you need to craft the ultimate Pappardelle Bolognese. We’ve also included substitution options to make this recipe work with what you have on hand.
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (Ground turkey or plant-based meat can be substituted if desired.)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (You can substitute yellow or orange bell pepper for a sweeter flavor.)
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef broth (Chicken broth or vegetable stock also works.)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz pappardelle pasta (Swap with tagliatelle if unavailable.)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How to Make Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese at Home
1. Cook the Meat for Your Bolognese
Sauté ground beef or sausage in olive oil until browned. Remove excess fat.
2. Sauté Vegetables for Depth
Add diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Cook until tender and aromatic.
3. Simmer the Classic Bolognese Sauce
Stir in tomatoes, paste, broth, and seasonings. Simmer for 15–20 minutes.
4. Boil the Pappardelle Pasta
Cook to al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
5. Combine Sauce and Pasta
Toss cooked pasta into the sauce. Add pasta water if needed.
6. Serve and Garnish
Top with basil. Serve hot and enjoy your Italian pasta masterpiece!
Why Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese Is Good for You
Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese isn’t just delicious, but it comes with some nutritional perks too.
- Protein-Rich: The beef or Italian sausage provides protein to keep you feeling full.
- Packed with Veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, and onions add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Sustained Energy: Pappardelle pasta offers the carbohydrates necessary to fuel your day.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese with complementary side dishes for a complete meal.
- Salad: A fresh arugula and Parmesan salad with lemon vinaigrette works beautifully.
- Wine: A robust red wine, like Chianti or Barbera, enhances each bite.
- Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread makes it impossible to leave any sauce behind.
Variations to Try
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun ways to mix up this classic recipe.
- Mushroom Lover’s Version: Add mushrooms to the veggie mix for a hearty, earthy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a fiery Bolognese.
- Creamy Bolognese: Add a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone for a richer sauce.
- Herbed Bolognese: Try adding fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic depth of flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Pappardelle Bolognese
- Pasta Water Magic: Save pasta water to help bind the sauce to the pasta.
- Simmer for Longer (optional): If time permits, simmer the sauce for up to an hour. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor becomes.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil makes a noticeable difference in the final dish.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating
- Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.
- Freezing
- Freeze the Bolognese sauce separately (without the pasta) for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before combining with freshly cooked pasta.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Always cook your pasta to al dente to avoid a mushy texture.
- Skipping the Veggies: They provide sweetness and balance to the rich tomato base.
- Forgetting to Taste: Always taste your sauce as it cooks and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot for Pasta
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 carrot diced
- 15 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz pappardelle pasta
- fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Step 2: Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and carrot. Sauté until vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until thickened.
- Step 4: Meanwhile, cook pappardelle according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet. Toss to coat with the sauce.
- Step 5: Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the meat with plant-based meat or cooked lentils for a hearty meat-free alternative.
2. Can I make this in advance?
Yes, the Bolognese sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer use.
3. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Definitely! Whole wheat pappardelle works well and adds more fiber to your meal.
Bring Italy to Your Table Tonight
With every forkful of Hearty Pappardelle Bolognese, you’re not just eating a meal – you’re enjoying a slice of Italian tradition. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and a joy to make. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this recipe is a winner.