Rustic Lamb Ragù with Fresh Pappardelle

Rustic Lamb Ragù with Fresh Pappardelle, Ricotta & Mint

This ragù smells like it’s been simmering all afternoon, but it comes together quickly — thanks to fully cooked braised lamb shanks from Costco. Tender and deeply flavored, the meat is simply shredded and folded into the sauce, where it soaks up all the tomato, wine, and variety of spices.

The sauce starts with a classic soffritto of onion, celery, and carrot softened in olive oil until golden and aromatic. A splash of red wine and a spoonful of tomato paste deepen the flavor, followed by fire-roasted tomatoes and a bit of beef broth. The mixture comes briefly to a boil, then simmers for about 20 minutes — enough time for the flavors to meld into a beautifully rustic ragù.

Tossed with fresh pappardelle and finished with a bit of butter, each ribbon of pasta clings to the rich sauce. A scoop of creamy ricotta and a sprinkle of fresh mint brighten the dish, while chili flakes on the side add optional heat.

In under an hour, this Rustic Lamb Ragù with Fresh Pappardelle delivers all the warmth, depth, and soul of a slow-cooked Sunday supper — no hours required, just smart shortcuts and robust seasoning.

Rustic Lamb Ragù Recipe

Ragú

• 2 T. olive oil
• 1/4 c. onion, small dice
• 1/4 c. celery, small dice
• 1/4 c. carrot, thin slice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 t. coriander seed
• 1 t. fennel seed
• 1 t. cumin seed
• 1/2 t. dried rosemary
• 1/2 t. dried thyme
• 1/3 c. dry red wine (see below)
• 1 T. tomato paste
• 15 oz. can diced fire roasted tomatoes
• 3/4 c. beef broth
• sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste

In a skillet large enough to hold the ragú and pasta—sauté onion, celery, and carrot in olive oil over medium heat until soft. Meanwhile toast coriander, fennel, and cumin seeds in a dry small skillet until fragrant, then cool, and grind in a spice grinder.

Add garlic, toasted spices, rosemary and thyme to the skillet and continue to cook for a minute or two. Then add red wine and tomato paste. Stir to combine. After 5 minutes add tomatoes and beef broth. Briefly bring mixture to a boil, then simmer for about 20 minutes.

Lamb

• approx. 1 1/2 lb. braised lamb shank

Braise lamb shanks ahead of time or use my quick method with fully-cooked shanks from Costco.

While sauce is simmering, heat the Costco lamb by microwaving in the bag for 7 1/2 minutes according to package instructions. Let cool slightly then chop/shred the lamb meat and add it to the sauce. Continue to simmer for another 15 minutes. Taste for seasoning.

Pasta

• 1/2 lb. fresh pappardelle
• salt
• 2 T. butter

Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta to the pot and cook for approximately 4 minutes al dente, stirring occasionally. Note: be sure to separate the strands of pasta before adding to the pot if they are stuck together.

Drain the pasta and add it to the sauce. Cut the butter into small pieces and add it to the sauce. Gently toss to combine. Taste for seasoning.

To Serve

• ricotta
• fresh mint leaves, chiffonade and a small sprig
• dried chili flakes

Plate the Lamb Ragù with Fresh Pappardelle in warm shallow bowls. Finish with a scoop of ricotta and the mint. Season the ricotta with a little sea salt and fresh ground pepper. Serve chili flakes on the side.

Wine Pairing

2022 Orin Swift Abstract

The 2022 Orin Swift Abstract pairs beautifully with this Rustic Lamb Ragù because its full-bodied profile and complex flavors mirror the hearty, slow-cooked essence of the dish, creating a balanced and satisfying experience.

This California red blend, dominated by Grenache, Petite Sirah, and Syrah, brings together juicy berry fruit, savory spice, and subtle earthy undertones that complement the richness of the lamb.

The wine’s black pepper and balsamic notes harmonize with the toasted spices and tomato base of the ragù, enhancing the depth of the sauce. Additionally, the umami finish of the wine resonates with the savory lamb, while the creamy ricotta and fresh mint add brightness, providing a delightful contrast that elevates both the food and the wine.