Braised Beef Pasta is a delightful main course known for its rich, cozy, deeply savory flavors. Inspired by slow-cooked Italian comfort dishes, this modern version combines tender shredded beef, aromatic vegetables, fresh herbs, and a silky tomato infused sauce to create a luxurious and impressive dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious. With easy, step-by-step instructions, anyone can make this recipe at home and impress family and friends with restaurant-quality results.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

This Braised Beef Pasta stands out for its simplicity, depth of flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The combination of slow cooked beef, tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs makes it perfect for Sunday gatherings, cozy nights, and comforting dinners when you want something hearty and soul warming. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe guarantees impressive results every time. Trust me, you are going to love this.

All Ingredients You’ll Ever Need

• 800 g beef chuck, cut into large chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• 500 g crushed tomatoes
• 500 ml beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 350 g pasta (pappardelle, rigatoni, or tagliatelle)
• 1 handful fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 handful freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  (Adjust quantities and details as needed.)

Time Needed to Make This Recipe

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook/Chill Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Special Equipment You’ll Need

• Large heavy pot or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Pasta pot and strainer

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Braised Beef Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Beef for Maximum Flavor
Heat the olive oil in a heavy pot over medium high heat. Add the beef chunks and sear on all sides until a deep golden brown crust forms. This caramelization brings richness and depth, so take your time and let the aroma fill your kitchen.

Step 2: Build the Aromatic Base
Remove the seared beef and set aside. Add the onions, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Stir until the vegetables soften and turn slightly golden. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Sauce
Stir in the smoked paprika, dried oregano, tomato paste, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the vegetables are coated. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Slow Cook Until Tender
Return the seared beef to the pot, cover, and simmer on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours. The beef should become incredibly tender and easy to shred. As it cooks, the sauce thickens into a glossy, velvety mixture that clings to pasta like a dream. This one is a total game changer.

Step 5: Shred the Beef
Remove the beef chunks, shred them with two forks, then return the shredded beef to the sauce. Stir well so every strand becomes coated in the rich braising liquid. Let me tell you, it is worth every bite.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain, but reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 7: Combine and Serve
Add the pasta directly into the pot of braised beef. Toss gently, adding splashes of pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce. Finish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Tips

• Serve warm for best flavor.
• Present on wide shallow bowls for a rustic, elegant effect.
• Garnish with chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil.
• For an elegant touch, top with extra finely shredded beef or a spoonful of sauce around the edges.

Extra Tips for Best Results

• Use beef chuck for the most tender and flavorful braised result.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to let flavors deepen.
• Add pasta water slowly to control the creaminess and texture.

Variations You Can Try

• Swap crushed tomatoes with fire roasted tomatoes for a smokier depth.
• Make it dairy free by skipping the Parmesan and adding nutritional yeast.
• Add roasted vegetables on top for extra color and presentation.

FAQ’s – 10 Most Common Questions About Braised Beef Pasta

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely, the flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.

Q2: Can I use another cut of beef?
A: Yes, brisket or short ribs work well, but beef chuck remains the most reliable for tenderness.

Q3: Can I use gluten free pasta?
A: Yes, any sturdy gluten free pasta holds up beautifully with this sauce.

Q4: How can I thicken the sauce?
A: Let it simmer uncovered for the last 20 minutes or add a small spoon of tomato paste.

Q5: Can I freeze the sauce?
A: Yes, freeze the braised beef sauce without the pasta for best texture.

Q6: How do I keep the beef from drying out?
A: Cook low and slow, and always keep it partially submerged in liquid.

Q7: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, after searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours.

Q8: What pasta shape works best?
A: Pappardelle, rigatoni, or tagliatelle cling perfectly to the rich sauce.

Q9: Can I add vegetables?
A: Yes, mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers make great additions.

Q10: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

Braised Beef Pasta is a show-stopping main course that is surprisingly simple to make yet visually stunning. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture, bold slow cooked flavor, and rich, glossy sauce, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it once, and you will want to make it again and again.

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