Polenta Pasticciata Ragu Recipe

This Polenta Pasticciata recipe is a Ragù® contest entry, bursting with authentic Italian flavors! Imagine creamy polenta layered with a rich, slow-simmered ragù—the perfect comforting dish for chilly evenings. This hearty and satisfying recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to impress with this elevated take on classic Italian comfort food!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 75 mins
Calories 488.2 kcal
Protein 46g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Polenta Pasticciata Ragu 13

Recipe Actions

Share this recipe:

Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Polenta Pasticciata Ragu

Cook Smarter with Sous, Your Kitchen Companion

Missing an ingredient for this Polenta Pasticciata Ragu? Need a perfect wine pairing or a healthy side dish idea? Don't guess—ask Sous! Your AI-powered sous-chef is ready to help you swap ingredients, adjust serving sizes, and discover flavor tips in seconds.

How to Make Polenta Pasticciata Ragu

  1. Prepare the Ragù: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 large onion, finely chopped, and 2 carrots, finely chopped, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  2. Add 1 pound of ground beef and 1/2 pound of Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
  3. Stir in 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor. Stir occasionally.
  4. Prepare the Polenta: While the ragù simmers, bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a large saucepan. Gradually whisk in 4 cups of coarse polenta, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low, and continue stirring frequently for about 20-25 minutes, or until the polenta is thick and creamy. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
  5. Assemble the Pasticciata: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the polenta in the bottom of the dish. Top with the entire ragù. Spread the remaining polenta over the ragù. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
  6. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the top is lightly browned. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

54 g

Sugar

6g

Fat

79g

Carbs

9g