Prepare to fall in love with the bold, rich flavors of this Whole30 Classic Italian Ragu—a hearty, slow-simmered masterpiece that’s both comforting and diet-friendly. Featuring a blend of ground beef and pork, aromatic garlic and herbs, and a luscious tomato base elevated with a splash of balsamic vinegar, this ragu is packed with depth and authentic Italian flair. Perfectly suited for zoodles or other Whole30-approved vegetable noodles, it's a deliciously satisfying meal that comes together with simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Whether you're following Whole30 or just craving an unforgettable sauce, this wholesome ragu will become a new favorite in your kitchen. Ready in about 90 minutes, it's worth every moment of simmering!
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef and pork. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.
Drain excess fat if necessary, and stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and balsamic vinegar.
Add the bay leaf, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer the ragu for at least 60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For deeper flavors, a simmer of 90 minutes is recommended.
Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This ragu pairs well with zoodles or any Whole30-approved vegetable noodles.
Calories |
2306 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 158.5 g | 203% | |
| Saturated Fat | 54.4 g | 272% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 525 mg | 175% | |
| Sodium | 4838 mg | 210% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 82.6 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.6 g | 77% | |
| Total Sugars | 50.1 g | ||
| Protein | 152.7 g | 305% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 484 mg | 37% | |
| Iron | 19.8 mg | 110% | |
| Potassium | 5008 mg | 107% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.