Meat sauce in Italian cooking

RAGU

Think of the rich, slow-cooked sauce often paired with wide, flat pasta.

"Ragu" is the Italian term for a rich, slow-cooked meat-based sauce, often made with ground or braised meat, tomatoes, and aromatics like onions and herbs. The clue points directly to this dish, which is a staple in Italian cuisine—think of it as the hearty sauce you’d find in lasagna or served over pasta. While some might confuse it with the brand Ragu (a commercial pasta sauce in the U.S.), the answer refers to the traditional Italian preparation. The word itself comes from the French ragout, meaning a stew, highlighting its deep, savory roots.