Hearty Bolognese Sauce Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

Bolognese sauce, a rich and hearty classic, fills the kitchen with the aroma of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Just imagine twirling fresh pasta in this luscious sauce while your taste buds do a happy dance.

As I reflect on family dinners filled with laughter and spilled spaghetti, bolognese sauce takes center stage. It’s the ultimate comfort food perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings, promising a flavor explosion that will make everyone ask for seconds.

I remember serving this bolognese sauce at a family gathering and seeing everyone’s eyes light up with delight.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use high-quality beef for a richer flavor; lean options work well too.

• Onion: Dice finely; it forms the aromatic base of your sauce.

• Carrot: Grate or finely chop; it adds natural sweetness to balance acidity.

• Celery: This aromatic veggie provides depth; make sure it’s fresh.

• Garlic: Fresh cloves are unbeatable; use minced for an intense flavor kick.

• Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole peeled tomatoes; they create a luscious texture when crushed.

• Red Wine: A splash enhances the sauce; use one you’d enjoy drinking!

• Herbs (Basil and Oregano): Fresh herbs lend vibrant flavor; dried works in a pinch.

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for an authentic Mediterranean touch.

• Salt and Pepper: Don’t forget this essential seasoning duo to elevate all flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until they’re fragrant and slightly caramelized.

Add the Garlic and Meat: Toss in minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add ground beef; cook until browned and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Incorporate Tomatoes and Wine: Pour in canned tomatoes and crush them gently with your spoon. Add red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up delicious brown bits from the bottom for extra flavor.

Add Herbs and Seasonings: Sprinkle in oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Allow the flavors to marry together beautifully.

Simmer Your Sauce: Bring the sauce to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Cover partially with a lid and let it simmer for at least 30-45 minutes so flavors deepen.

Taste and Adjust Seasoning: After simmering, taste your sauce! Adjust salt or pepper as needed before serving over pasta of choice or using in your favorite lasagna recipe. Enjoy!

This delightful bolognese sauce will have everyone at your table asking for more while savoring every bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then brown the meat before adding tomatoes and herbs for a rich flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef with turkey or add some pancetta for an extra kick. Try different herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Storing & Reheating

Store bolognese sauce in an airtight container for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.

The first time I made bolognese sauce, my friends declared it “life-changing.” Now, every Sunday is officially “Bolognese Day” at our house.

FAQ

What can I serve with bolognese sauce?

Pair it with spaghetti, lasagna, or even polenta for a delightful meal.

Can I freeze bolognese sauce?

Yes, it freezes well! Store in portions and thaw when needed.

How long should I cook bolognese sauce?

Cook it low and slow for at least two hours for maximum flavor development.

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Bolognese Sauce

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Bolognese sauce is a classic Italian dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This hearty sauce, made with quality ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and rich tomatoes, creates a deliciously satisfying combination perfect for twirling with pasta or layering in lasagna. With its deep flavors and inviting aroma, this bolognese will become a crowd favorite, making every family gathering special.

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tsp fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened (5-7 minutes).
2. Stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef; cook until browned (8-10 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add canned tomatoes and crush them gently. Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot.
4. Mix in oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; stir well. Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low.
5. Cover partially and let simmer for at least 30-45 minutes for flavors to develop. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg