The Best Meat-Based Pastas You Should Try in Italy

Italy is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, and pasta holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors. While many associate Italian pasta with tomato-based sauces or vegetarian options, meat-based pastas offer a rich and satisfying experience that you shouldn't miss. Here, we delve into some of the best meat-based pastas you should try during your travels in Italy, ensuring each dish reflects authentic Italian flavors and traditions.

1. Tagliatelle al Ragù (Bolognese)

Originating from Bologna, Tagliatelle al Ragù is a classic dish featuring handmade tagliatelle noodles smothered in a rich ragù sauce made from minced beef, pork, and a blend of aromatic vegetables. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making this dish a must-try for anyone visiting the region.

2. Lasagna alla Bolognese

Another gem from Bologna, Lasagna alla Bolognese provides layers of flat pasta interspersed with ragù, béchamel sauce, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. This hearty dish exemplifies the essence of comfort food, and it's best enjoyed fresh from a local trattoria, where you can taste the dedication put into its preparation.

3. Pici Cacio e Pepe with Guanciale

Pici is a hand-rolled pasta from Tuscany that pairs beautifully with cheese and black pepper, but when you add guanciale—cured pork cheek—the dish transforms into a delightful savory experience. The crispiness of guanciale enhances the creamy sauce, making it unforgettable.

4. Orecchiette alle Cime di Rapa con Salsiccia

In the region of Puglia, orecchiette—a small, ear-shaped pasta—is typically served with broccoli rabe (cime di rapa) and crumbled sausage. This combination offers a perfectly balanced meal, where the bitter greens complement the richness of the meat.

5. Spaghetti alla Carbonara

A Roman classic, Spaghetti alla Carbonara features spaghetti tossed with crispy guanciale, eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. The result is a creamy, satisfying dish that delivers a burst of flavors in every bite. Be sure to enjoy this dish in its traditional form, without cream!

6. Fettuccine Alfredo con Pollo

Though its origins are more American than Italian, many locals in Rome enjoy a version of Fettuccine Alfredo that includes tender chicken. This creamy pasta dish, with its buttery sauce, is a filling choice after a long day of exploring, making it a popular option for tourists and locals alike.

7. Ravioli di Carne

Ravioli filled with meat, or ravioli di carne, is a versatile dish that can vary significantly by region. In Lombardy, for instance, you might find these stuffed pockets filled with a blend of beef and veal, served with a simple butter and sage sauce. Each bite reveals a comforting burst of flavor that showcases the skill of Italian cooks.

8. Pappardelle con Cinghiale

In Tuscany, pappardelle—broad, flat pasta—pairs beautifully with a rich wild boar ragù. The slow-cooked meat is tender and infused with herbs, making every forkful an explosion of rustic flavors. This dish provides a distinct taste of the Tuscan countryside and is often paired with a robust red wine.

9. Tortellini in Brodo

A beloved dish from Emilia-Romagna, Tortellini in Brodo consists of small, ring-shaped pasta stuffed with a blend of meats, often served in a savory broth. This warming dish is particularly popular during the colder months and is a comforting reminder of family traditions in Italian kitchens.

10. Cannelloni di Carne

Cannelloni are large tubes of pasta filled with a rich meat filling, often mixed with ricotta cheese and topped with tomato sauce and cheese before being baked. This dish is a great choice for those seeking a hearty meal that delivers both flavor and satisfaction.

Each of these meat-based pasta dishes offers a unique glimpse into Italy's culinary landscape. As you explore the diverse regions of Italy, be sure to savor these authentic dishes that exemplify the love and care that goes into Italian cooking.