Print

Bolognese Sauce Recipe Recipe

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Total Time: 40
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop, Mixing
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Low Lactose
Bolognese Sauce Recipe

Description

This classic Bolognese sauce offers a rich, deeply flavorful experience, perfect for elevating your favorite pasta dishes. Inspired by traditional Italian methods, it builds layers of complex taste through slow simmering. Its robust texture and comforting depth make it an unforgettable meal, ideal for a leisurely weekend or preparing ahead.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 chuck)
  • 1 pound (450g) ground pork
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) dry red wine
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery (the soffritto) and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly golden, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Add the ground beef and ground pork to the pot. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until browned, about 10-12 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  3. Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook until the wine has almost completely evaporated, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, whole milk, and ground nutmeg. Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
  5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the sauce simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water or broth.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot over your favorite pasta, such as tagliatelle or pappardelle, with a generous sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use good quality ground meats with a decent fat content (like 80/20 chuck for beef).
  • Do not skip the milk; it helps to tenderize the meat and adds a creamy richness to the sauce.
  • Bolognese tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent make-ahead meal.

Nutrition

    Array