Pappardelle Bolognese with Fresh Basil is a classic Italian dish that epitomizes comfort, richness, and elegance all in one plate. Wide, flat pappardelle noodles are the perfect canvas for the slow-simmered Bolognese sauce, which is made with a mix of ground beef, pork, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables.

The addition of fresh basil elevates the dish, adding a bright, herbaceous note that perfectly balances the rich, meaty sauce. This dish is ideal for weekend dinners, special gatherings, or any time you want to experience authentic Italian flavors at home.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s rich, comforting, and full of layers of flavor. The slow-simmered sauce allows the flavors of the meat, vegetables, wine, and tomatoes to meld together perfectly, creating a savory and aromatic experience.

The wide pappardelle noodles capture the sauce beautifully, ensuring each bite is coated with deliciousness.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it combines classic Italian techniques with bold, comforting flavors. The depth of the Bolognese sauce, the tender texture of pappardelle, and the freshness of basil make this a standout pasta dish.

Unlike simpler tomato-based pastas, Bolognese is hearty and satisfying, perfect for those who love a meaty, rich, and comforting meal.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Servings: 4–6 servings
• Calories: ~620 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

For the Bolognese Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, finely diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• ½ lb (225 g) ground beef
• ½ lb (225 g) ground pork
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup dry white wine or red wine
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) fresh or dried pappardelle
• Salt, for pasta water

Optional Garnish:

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are softened.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

1. Add ground beef and pork to the pot.
2. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes).
3. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Deglaze with Milk and Wine

1. Pour in the milk and simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly reduced.
2. Add wine and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes to allow alcohol to evaporate and flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

1. Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce is thickened and flavors are well blended.

Step 5: Cook the Pappardelle

1. While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pappardelle according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Toss the cooked pappardelle with a portion of the Bolognese sauce.
2. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

Step 7: Serve

1. Plate the pasta and spoon additional Bolognese sauce on top.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a light salad.

How to Serve

• Serve as a main course for lunch or dinner.
• Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil for presentation.

Recipe Tips

• Meat: A mix of beef and pork adds richness and depth of flavor.
• Slow Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for at least 45 minutes for best flavor.
• Fresh Basil: Add fresh basil at the end to preserve its bright flavor.
• Pasta: Fresh pappardelle is ideal but dried works well too.
• Make Ahead: Bolognese sauce can be made a day ahead to enhance flavor.

Recipe Variations

1. Chicken Bolognese: Substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
2. Vegetarian: Use lentils or finely chopped mushrooms instead of meat.
3. Creamy Bolognese: Stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving.
4. Spicy Bolognese: Add crushed red pepper flakes during simmering.
5. Slow Cooker Version: Cook sauce on low for 4–6 hours for deeper flavors.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove.
• Pasta: It’s best to cook pasta fresh; cooked pasta can be stored in the fridge for 1 day but may become soft.

Special Equipment Needed

• Heavy-bottomed pot or skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Large pot for pasta
• Cheese grater (for garnish)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use all beef instead of a mix of beef and pork?
Yes — it will still taste delicious, though pork adds extra richness.

Q2: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely — Bolognese sauce tastes even better when made a day ahead.

Q3: Can I use store-bought pasta?
Yes — both fresh and dried pappardelle work well.

Q4: Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes — replace meat with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms.

Q5: Can I freeze the pasta with sauce?
It’s best to freeze the sauce separately; pasta may become soft when frozen.

Conclusion

Pappardelle Bolognese with Fresh Basil is a classic, comforting, and richly flavored Italian dish that brings authentic flavors to your home. The combination of wide, tender pappardelle noodles with a slow-simmered, meaty Bolognese sauce creates a meal that’s both hearty and elegant.

Versatile, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion, this dish is a must-try for anyone who loves traditional Italian cooking. Every bite delivers depth, richness, and freshness — a timeless pasta experience you’ll want to make again and again.