A luxurious, slow-cooked Italian ragu featuring ground lamb simmered in tomatoes and aromatic herbs, served over silky pappardelle for a warm, comforting dinner.

Lamb Ragu with Pappardelle

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lamb Ragu with Pappardelle is the perfect dish to indulge in during the colder months. The rich, tender lamb combines with a robust tomato and herb sauce, creating a deeply satisfying meal. The slow-cooked ragu allows the flavors to develop and intensify, while the pappardelle pasta absorbs all the delicious sauce. It’s a dish that brings a taste of Italy right to your table, ideal for cozy family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lb (1 kg) ground lamb
3 Tbsp olive oil
1 brown onion, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 carrot, diced
3 Tbsp tomato paste
2 bay leaves
2 sprigs rosemary
4 sprigs thyme
4 cups chicken stock
28 oz (800 g) diced tomatoes
7 oz pappardelle pasta
Freshly grated Parmesan, for serving

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Lamb

In a large, heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground lamb and cook until browned and slightly crispy. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add the diced onion, celery, and carrot to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Herbs

Stir in tomato paste, bay leaves, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the ragu is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pappardelle pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Ragu

About 10 minutes before the ragu is done, toss the cooked pasta with a few ladles of the ragu to coat. Serve the pasta topped with extra ragu and a generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Kcal: ~450 kcal per serving
Servings: 6 servings

Tips & Insights

Slow-Cooked Perfection: The longer you let the ragu simmer, the more flavorful it will become. If you have the time, make it a day ahead and reheat before serving for even better flavor.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

This Lamb Ragu with Pappardelle is a beautifully hearty, Italian-inspired meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The slow-cooked lamb in a rich, savory sauce served over a bed of pappardelle pasta is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy weekend meal, this dish will surely impress with its deep flavors and comforting warmth.