Imagine gathering around the table with your loved ones, sharing delicious food that warms the heart and fills the belly. This season, we’re bringing a touch of Italian charm into your kitchen with two delightful recipes featuring ground beef. These dishes are not just meals; they are experiences filled with rich flavors and comforting aromas that will make your family feel special.
Hearty Roman Beef Ragu

Slowly Braised Beef Ragu (Stovetop, Oven, Slow Cooker, and More!) from Plays Well With Butter
Rating: 4.6 (8 reviews). Total Time: 3 h 30 min.
Jamie Oliver’s Pappardelle With Beef Ragu from NYT Cooking – The New York Times
Rating: 4 (2093 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 45 min.
This Hearty Roman Beef Ragu is a warm embrace on a plate. Slow-cooked to perfection, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich, savory sauce that is perfect over pasta or polenta. The technique of simmering the ingredients allows the ground beef to become tender and flavorful, making it a real crowd-pleaser.
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh basil for garnish
What makes this dish so special is the way it brings together simple ingredients to create a complex flavor profile. The combination of beef, aromatic vegetables, and fragrant herbs results in a sauce that clings beautifully to pasta, making every bite a delight. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of Italian tradition, perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings with family and friends. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight but impressive enough to serve on special occasions.
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Roman-Style Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef from Real Food Whole Life
Rating: 5 (55 reviews). Total Time: 1 h 10 min.
Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef, Ricotta and Spinach from Slow Cooker Living
Total Time: 55 min.
These Roman-Style Beef and Spinach Stuffed Shells are like little pillows of joy, brimming with flavor and comfort. The combination of tender pasta shells filled with a savory beef and spinach mixture, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, creates a dish that’s absolutely irresistible. Baking them allows the flavors to meld while the cheese gets all bubbly and golden.
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe stands out because it combines the heartiness of beef with the nutritious goodness of spinach, making it a well-rounded meal. The creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella add a delightful richness that elevates the dish to a new level. These stuffed shells are not only fun to make, but they also bring a sense of satisfaction as you watch your family savor every bite. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family night, they are sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe repertoire.








