Name: Quick Lamb Ragù: A Deliciously Easy Recipe to Try!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; plus more for drizzling; 1 medium yellow onion; finely chopped; 4 garlic cloves; finely chopped; Kosher salt and black pepper; Pinch of red-pepper flakes (optional); 2 anchovy fillets (optional); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 pound ground lamb; 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 12 ounces cooked pasta; noodles or tubes; for serving; A good hunk of Parmesan or pecorino; for serving; A small handful of marjoram; oregano or thyme; for serving (optional)

When time is of the essence, but flavor still matters, a quick lamb ragù offers a delicious solution. This exquisite dish combines tender lamb with rich tomatoes and aromatic herbs, delivering a comforting meal that warms the soul. Moreover, the ease of preparation transforms a typically lengthy recipe into a weeknight winner, allowing you to savor gourmet flavors without the hours in the kitchen.

Furthermore, quick lamb ragù serves as an excellent canvas for inventive variations. Whether you pair it with pasta, polenta, or even creamy risotto, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can impress family and friends alike, making it the perfect choice for any occasion.

Ingredients for Quick Lamb Ragù:

To create a delectable Quick Lamb Ragù, gather these fresh ingredients:

– 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
– 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
– Kosher salt to taste
– Black pepper to taste
– Pinch of red-pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
– 2 anchovy fillets (optional, for depth of flavor)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
– 12 ounces cooked pasta, noodles, or tubes for serving
– A good hunk of Parmesan or pecorino cheese, for serving
– A small handful of fresh marjoram, oregano, or thyme, for garnish (optional)

Once you have your ingredients ready, you can whip up this rich meat sauce in no time. Pair your dish with a side of Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach for an unforgettable meal! Enjoy the comforting embrace of this Quick Lamb Ragù, perfect for family dinners or any cozy gathering.

How to Prepare:

For a delicious Quick Lamb Ragù, start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, a pinch of red-pepper flakes, and optional anchovy fillets, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.

Next, incorporate the tomato paste, mixing well before adding the ground lamb. Cook the lamb until it’s browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, pour in the can of crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for about 20 minutes.

While your ragù simmers, prepare your favorite pasta. Drain and mix the pasta with the ragù, ensuring it’s well coated. Serve with a generous drizzle of olive oil, grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese, and a sprinkle of marjoram or oregano for an added touch. For a comforting pairing, try this easy lemon ricotta pasta with spinach as a side!

Serving Suggestions :

Pair your delicious Quick Lamb Ragù with a variety of side dishes for a well-rounded meal. Serve it over freshly cooked pasta, like tagliatelle or pappardelle, to soak up all the flavorful sauce. Alternatively, you can enjoy it with a side of crusty homemade bread, perfect for sopping up the rich juices.

For a lighter option, try it alongside a crisp green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the dish’s richness. If you’re in the mood for something comforting, consider accompanying it with creamy mushroom rice, which complements the ragù beautifully. Don’t forget to bring a delicious dessert into the mix! A slice of easy chocolate mousse without eggs would be an excellent choice after your meal.

For the full recipe of this mouthwatering Quick Lamb Ragù, visit the New York Times Cooking page. These serving ideas will undoubtedly elevate your dining experience!

Storage Tips for Quick Lamb Ragù:

To keep your Quick Lamb Ragù fresh, proper storage is essential. After cooking, allow the ragù to cool down to room temperature. It’s best to transfer the mix into an airtight container within two hours to prevent bacterial growth. You can refrigerate the lamb ragù for up to three days, ensuring it’s safely stored.

If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Simply portion the ragù into freezer-safe bags or containers, allowing some space for expansion as it freezes. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

Pair this hearty sauce with a side of homemade lemon ricotta pasta for a delightful meal!

Variations of Quick Lamb Ragù:

When it comes to creating delightful variations of Quick Lamb Ragù, the options are endless. You can easily customize the recipe according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding olives and capers, enhancing the savory elements of the dish. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, incorporate red wine during the simmering stage; it will deepen the sauce’s complexity beautifully.

Additionally, you can serve your lamb ragù over a bed of creamy risotto for a heartier meal. For those seeking a lighter option, try pairing it with whole-grain pasta or zucchini noodles. If you’re in the mood for something fun and easy, consider preparing a delicious Easy Pizza Soup as a side. It complements the lamb’s richness while providing a comforting tomato-based flavor. Whatever variation you choose, Quick Lamb Ragù will always be a crowd-pleaser.

Pairing Wines with Quick Lamb Ragù:

To complement your quick lamb ragù, consider a full-bodied red like Shiraz or a rich Chianti. These wines enhance the savory flavor of the dish. The acidity in Chianti cuts through the richness, while Shiraz offers a bold counterpoint. For a delightful pairing experience, enjoy it alongside Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Spinach, balancing flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What ingredients are needed for Quick Lamb Ragù?

For a delightful Quick Lamb Ragù, you’ll need ground lamb, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, red wine, and a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. This combination creates a rich flavor profile that enhances the overall dish, making it a family favorite.

How long does it take to prepare Quick Lamb Ragù?

This quick version of lamb ragù can be whipped up in just around 30 minutes. You can enjoy a hearty meal without the long simmering hours typically required for traditional ragùs, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I use other meats for this ragù?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on lamb, you could easily substitute it with ground beef or turkey. Each option brings its unique flavor, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferences.

What can I serve with Quick Lamb Ragù?

Quick Lamb Ragù pairs beautifully with pasta, polenta, or creamy risotto. For a lighter option, serve it atop zucchini noodles. Each accompaniment elevates the dish and makes for a satisfying meal.

Is Quick Lamb Ragù suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s suitable for meal prep! You can make a larger batch, store it in the fridge, and reheat it throughout the week. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.

Can I find similar hearty recipes?

If you are looking for comforting dishes, you might enjoy this Mushroom Rice recipe. It offers a warm, satisfying taste that’s perfect for a family gathering or cozy night in.

Quick Lamb Ragù: A Deliciously Easy Recipe to Try!

Total Time: 50
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

This Quick Lamb Ragù is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With ground lamb simmered in a rich tomato sauce, it’s great served over your favorite pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons olive oil

plus more for drizzling

1 medium yellow onion

finely chopped

4 garlic cloves

finely chopped

Kosher salt and black pepper

Pinch of red-pepper flakes (optional)

2 anchovy fillets (optional)

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 pound ground lamb

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

12 ounces cooked pasta

noodles or tubes

for serving

A good hunk of Parmesan or pecorino

for serving

A small handful of marjoram

oregano or thyme

for serving (optional)

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the chopped garlic, salt, black pepper, and red-pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the anchovy fillets and tomato paste, cooking for an additional 2 minutes while stirring until the anchovies dissolve.
Introduce the ground lamb to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve the ragù over the cooked pasta, drizzled with olive oil, and garnished with grated Parmesan or pecorino and herbs if desired.