Quick Beef Cheek Ragu Pasta (Using Leftovers)

 

Transform leftover Slow Cooked Beef Cheeks in Red Wine into a rich, hearty pasta dish in just 15 minutes! With tender shredded beef and a sauce that coats the pasta perfectly, this quick ragu is a midweek dinner lifesaver. It’s perfect for using up leftovers and delivering that slow-cooked flavor without the wait.

Ingredients

• 350 g / 12 oz dried spaghetti
• 2 cups leftover beef from Slow Cooked Beef Cheeks in Red Wine, shredded
• 1 cup sauce from Slow Cooked Beef Cheeks in Red Wine
• 1 onion (brown, white, or yellow), diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups crushed tomatoes (canned)
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/2 cup water
• 1-2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• Black pepper, to taste

To Serve

• Freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook for about 6 minutes or until just before al dente (slightly firm). The pasta will finish cooking in the sauce.

2. Make the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.

3. Add the Ingredients: Stir in the shredded beef, reserved sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water. Bring to a rapid simmer and cook, stirring occasionally. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta cooking water.

4. Combine Pasta & Sauce: Use tongs to transfer the pasta directly from the pot into the pan with the sauce. Add 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water and gently toss for 1-2 minutes until the pasta is al dente and the sauce coats the strands evenly.

5. Serve: Serve hot, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley, if desired.

Recipe Notes:

• Adjust the sauce consistency with more or less water as needed.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.

Nutrition Information:

• Serving Size: 213g
• Calories: 479 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Protein: 6.7g
• Fat: 35.2g
• Saturated Fat: 4.7g
• Sodium: 79mg
• Fiber: 3.6g
• Vitamin A: 550 IU
• Vitamin C: 15.7 mg
• Calcium: 30 mg
• Iron: 2.2 mg

Enjoy this deliciously rich and satisfying pasta, perfect for using up those leftovers while still delivering a comforting, hearty meal!