Quick & Easy Pasta al Ragù Napoletano – Italian Pasta Recipe

Introduction:

Craving the comforting flavors of classic Italian cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen? This Quick & Easy Pasta al Ragù Napoletano delivers rich, hearty taste inspired by the traditional Neapolitan ragù, but streamlined for busy weeknights. Typically a long-simmering Sunday dish, this simplified version captures the essence of southern Italian cooking: tender meat, robust tomato sauce, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s bold, satisfying, and ready in under an hour, making it perfect for a quick Italian dinner with slow-cooked flavor.

Ingredients:

For 2–3 Servings:

1. 200g (7 oz) pasta (rigatoni, ziti, or penne preferred)
2. 250g (9 oz) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
4. ½ small onion, finely chopped
5. 1 clove garlic, minced
6. 400g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
7. 1 tablespoon tomato paste
8. ½ teaspoon dried oregano
9. Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
10. Salt and black pepper to taste
11. Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano for serving

Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add ground meat to the pan. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.

Step 3: Add Tomato & Simmer

Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and flavorful. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick. Stir in fresh basil at the end, if using.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Toss the drained pasta with the ragù, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen the sauce. Plate and top generously with grated cheese and fresh herbs.

Optional Variations:

• Slow-Simmer Flavor: Simmer the sauce for 1–2 hours for deeper taste if you have more time.
• Add Red Wine: Deglaze the pan with ¼ cup red wine after browning the meat for a richer sauce.
• Meaty Upgrade: Add small chunks of sausage or beef short ribs for extra texture.
• Vegetarian Twist: Substitute lentils or mushrooms for the meat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Classic Italian Comfort – Deep, rich flavor inspired by Naples.
• Quick & Hearty – Ready in under 45 minutes, but tastes like it simmered all day.
• Versatile & Customizable – Swap in your favorite pasta or protein.
• Perfect for Family Dinners – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Leftovers Taste Even Better – Ideal for meal prep or next-day lunch.

This Quick & Easy Pasta al Ragù Napoletano brings a taste of Naples to your table without the long wait. It’s an everyday version of an Italian classic—full of tradition, flavor, and heart.