Beef Ravioli with Rich Velvety Bolognese Sauce

This delightful dish combines the tender texture of homemade beef ravioli with a robust and rich Bolognese sauce. It’s a savory Italian classic that brings together hearty beef filling enveloped in thin pasta skins, bathed in a luscious tomato-based sauce enriched with ground beef, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a comforting dinner that will impress your family and friends alike.

Ingredients:

For the Ravioli:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup ground beef
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bolognese Sauce:
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

To Make the Ravioli Dough:
1. On a clean work surface, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Add olive oil.
2. Gradually mix the eggs and oil with the flour, kneading until a smooth dough forms. This may take about 8-10 minutes.
3. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.

To Prepare the Filling:
1. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain the fat.
2. Let the beef cool slightly, then mix in ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

To Assemble the Ravioli:
1. Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it’s very thin.
2. Cut the dough into squares or use a ravioli cutter.
3. Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each square.
4. Brush the edges with water and top with another square of dough, pressing the edges to seal properly.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ravioli in batches for 3-4 minutes or until they float. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

To Make the Bolognese Sauce:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Pour in the red wine and simmer until it’s mostly evaporated.
6. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, milk, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

To Serve:
1. Toss the cooked ravioli gently with the Bolognese sauce to coat them well.
2. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and basil leaves.

Enjoy a comforting plate of Beef Ravioli with Rich Velvety Bolognese Sauce – a delightful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!