Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsUnion League CafeRigatoni Recipe

Rigatoni Recipe

Inspired by Union League Cafe
Time1h
Serves4

lamb bolognese

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Lamb Bolognese Sauce

Method

Cooking the Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water.

  2. 2

    Cook Rigatoni

    Add the rigatoni to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes.

  3. 3

    Drain Pasta

    Once cooked, drain the rigatoni in a colander and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Making Lamb Bolognese Sauce

  1. 4

    Sauté Vegetables

    In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

  2. 5

    Add Garlic

    Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

  3. 6

    Brown the Lamb

    Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground lamb. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 8-10 minutes.

  4. 7

    Add Tomato Ingredients

    Stir in the crushed canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine. Mix well to combine.

  5. 8

    Season the Sauce

    Add dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer.

  6. 9

    Simmer the Sauce

    Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

  1. 10

    Combine Rigatoni and Sauce

    Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce in the skillet. Toss together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

  2. 11

    Serve

    Plate the rigatoni and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious lamb bolognese!

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