This Minced Meat & Vegetable Ragù is a rich, comforting dish that brings together tender meat, aromatic vegetables, and warm spices in a deeply satisfying sauce. Whether served over pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes—this ragù delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.
It’s the kind of hearty comfort food that fills your kitchen with warmth and your belly with joy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🍴 Flavorful Layers: Browned meat, sweet mirepoix, and tomato paste build deep, savory flavor.
- 🧄 Slow-Simmered Perfection: A short braise helps everything meld into a silky, spoon-coating sauce.
- 🌿 Herb-Infused: Oregano and paprika add a touch of earthy warmth.
- 🍝 Versatile Serving: Works beautifully over pasta, rice, or creamy polenta.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour—perfect for weeknights or meal prep!
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
For Browning the Meat:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 400g (14 oz) minced meat (beef, pork, or mixed)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper , to taste
For the Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion , finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery , diced
- 1 large carrot , peeled and finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 150 ml water (or red wine for more depth)
- 200 ml vegetable or beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To Finish:
- 2 spring onions or green onions , thinly sliced
- 30g grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Heat Fats & Sear the Meat
In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat , add:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp butter
Once the butter melts and foams slightly, add the minced meat in a single layer.
Season lightly with salt and pepper and let it sear undisturbed for 3–4 minutes .
Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and continue cooking until fully browned and cooked through—about 6–7 minutes total .
Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the same pan.
Sprinkle with a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture.
Sauté for 5–6 minutes , stirring occasionally, until translucent and just starting to caramelize.
This builds natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Step 3: Cook Celery & Carrot
Increase heat slightly and add:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp butter
Add diced celery and carrot , stirring frequently.
Cook for 7–8 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
These form the classic mirepoix base—essential for any great Italian-style ragù.
Step 4: Add Garlic & Tomato Paste
Push the vegetables to one side of the pan.
Add the minced garlic and tomato paste to the empty side.
Cook for 1–2 minutes , allowing the garlic to soften and the tomato paste to deepen in color and flavor.
Stir everything together thoroughly.
Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in 150 ml water (or wine for extra complexity), scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this step unlocks layers of flavor.
Return the cooked minced meat to the pan along with any juices.
Mix well.
Step 6: Simmer with Broth & Spices
Pour in the broth , then stir in:
- Oregano
- Paprika
- Additional salt and pepper , to taste
Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
Let the ragù cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in half of the sliced green onions .
Serve hot over:
- Al dente pasta
- Creamy polenta
- Fluffy mashed potatoes
Top each portion with:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Remaining green onions for freshness and color
Tips for Success:
- 🍷 Use Wine for Depth: Substitute water with red or white wine for a richer, more complex sauce.
- 🧀 Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in a splash of cream or Parmesan at the end for extra richness.
- 🌱 Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and use mushrooms or lentils instead.
- 🥣 Make Ahead Magic: Tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
- 📦 Meal Prep Friendly: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later meals.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with crusty bread and a drizzle of olive oil for rustic charm.
- Add a dollop of ricotta or mozzarella for a creamy contrast.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for balance.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 6 servings – served over pasta):
(Without pasta)
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Protein: ~15g
- Carbohydrates: ~12g
- Fat: ~18g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~6g
This Hearty Minced Meat & Vegetable Ragù is a warming, comforting dish that brings the best of Italian-inspired home cooking right to your table. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and incredibly versatile.
So go ahead and serve this up with pride—you’ll feel like you’re eating straight from Nonna’s kitchen.
