Rigatoni Bolognese is a classic Italian pasta dish featuring a rich and hearty meat sauce made with ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables. The large ridges of rigatoni pasta are perfect for holding onto the savory sauce, making each bite deliciously satisfying. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients List

For the Bolognese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup whole milk
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces rigatoni pasta
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Timing

Preparing Rigatoni Bolognese takes about 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 45 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook Onion, Carrot, and Celery: Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

1. Add Ground Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pan. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain Excess Fat: If necessary, drain any excess fat from the pan.

Step 3: Add Wine and Tomatoes

1. Deglaze with Wine: If using, pour in the red wine and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

1. Simmer: Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add Milk: Stir in the milk and let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes. This will help to mellow the flavors and create a creamy texture.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente.
2. Drain: Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

1. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained rigatoni to the Bolognese sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
2. Garnish: Serve the rigatoni Bolognese hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Rigatoni Bolognese (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	550
Protein	30g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	60g
Fiber	3g

Tips for Customization

• Meat Variations: Use a mix of ground beef and ground pork for added flavor.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture and nutrition.
• Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaf can enhance the flavor; add them during simmering.

Serving Suggestions

Rigatoni Bolognese pairs well with:

• A simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Browning the Meat Properly: Make sure to brown the meat well for depth of flavor.
2. Rushing the Simmering Process: Allow the sauce to simmer long enough to develop its rich flavor.
3. Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the rigatoni until al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Rigatoni Bolognese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

Conclusion

In about 45 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious plate of Rigatoni Bolognese that is both hearty and satisfying. This classic Italian dish is sure to become a favorite in your household!

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the Bolognese sauce ahead of time and reheat it before adding the cooked pasta.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like pappardelle, fettuccine, or penne.

What if I want a vegetarian version?

You can substitute the meat with lentils or a mix of finely chopped vegetables for a vegetarian option.

Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the seasonings to your taste.