Pappardelle Bolognese is an Italian classic that combines tender, wide pasta with a hearty, meat-based sauce, making it the perfect dish for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. In this article, we’ll guide you through creating this delicious dish at home, step by step.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz pappardelle pasta

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped

– 1 carrot, finely chopped

– 3 garlic cloves, minced

– 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)

– 1 lb ground pork

– Salt and black pepper, to taste

– 1 cup red wine (preferably a dry variety)

– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

– 2 cups beef or vegetable broth

– 2 tablespoons tomato paste

– A small handful of fresh basil leaves, torn or roughly chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pappardelle pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, carrot and garlic to the heated oil and cook until softened and lightly browned, stirring occasionally. This should take around five minutes.

3. Brown the Meats: Add the ground beef and pork to the skillet along with vegetables and season generously with salt and black pepper. Cook until browned and crumbly over medium-high heat for about seven minutes.

4. Deglaze with Wine: Once the meat is properly browned, pour in the cup of red wine. Stir well, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any stuck-on bits. Cook for about two minutes, allowing the wine to partially reduce.

5. Slow Simmer: Once the wine has reduced, stir in crushed tomatoes, beef or vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Bring to a simmer and reduce heat to low. Let the sauce cook for at least 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This will allow all the flavors to meld together while the sauce thickens.

6. Finish with Fresh Basil: As the sauce nears completion, stir in fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor.

7. Serve: To serve, spoon a portion of Bolognese sauce over hot pappardelle pasta in wide bowls. You may garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for additional flavor.

Now you have your very own homemade pappardelle Bolognese to enjoy! Share this delightful recipe with your loved ones and impress with your culinary skills!