Easy Weeknight Wild Boar Ragu

If you’re looking to elevate your pasta night, this wild boar ragu is the perfect recipe. Using Force of Nature Wild Boar, fresh mushrooms, Italian seasoning, and a few easy-to-find ingredients, this dish combines rustic flavors with a modern twist for a rich, hearty meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 32oz jar spaghetti sauce (or homemade – I often opt for jarred to save time and it’s delicious!)

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 TBS chopped garlic (optional, but I love adding extra garlic flavor)

• 2 cups mushrooms, chopped (I use white, but Shitake or Portabello would be good too)

• 1 lb Force of Nature Wild Boar

• 2 TBS Italian seasoning

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 package of your favorite pasta noodles (Fettuccine is my go-to)

• 2 cups chopped spinach (optional but adds a fresh, vibrant touch)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Wild Boar: Start by browning the wild boar in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Add the garlic and mushrooms, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the mushrooms have softened and released their juices and everything is cooked through.

3. Build the Ragu: Add the sauce to the pan and stir in the Italian seasoning and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Lower the heat and cover and let the ragu simmer for 30 minutes to let the flavors fully meld together. About 5 minutes before serving, add the chopped spinach. It will cook down quickly.

4. Cook the Pasta: While the ragu is simmering, prepare your pasta according to the package directions. Reserve about ¼ cup of pasta water to add to the sauce for a slightly thicker, silkier texture.

5. Combine & Serve: For serving, you can either plate the pasta and spoon the ragu on top or add the noodles directly to the sauce in the skillet and toss until combined. My family prefers it served on top so everyone can choose their own sauce-to-pasta ratio.

6. Optional Toppings: Finish off with freshly grated Parmesan and pair it with my rosemary garlic bruschetta for an unforgettable meal.

Pair It Perfectly

If you’re a fan of food and wine pairings, consider trying this dish with a bold red like Barolo – it complements the rich flavor of the wild boar perfectly. To learn more about pairing Barolo with wild boar ragu, check out my blog post on food and wine pairings. Or, download my Italian food and wine guide to bring even more Italian flavors to your table!

Ready to try a pasta that’s anything but ordinary? This wild boar ragu is the hearty, savory dish you’ll want to add to your recipe rotation. Tag me on Instagram when you make it – I’d love to see your creations!

XOXO,

Courtney