This classic Bolognese sauce is rich and comforting, made with ground beef, tomatoes, and a dash of wine. It’s perfect for pasta nights and family dinners!
Honestly, there’s nothing like the smell of this sauce simmering away. I could just sit next to it all day, dreaming of spaghetti! 🍝 Make sure to serve it with your favorite pasta for a true treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Always a great choice for flavor and health! If you don’t have it, you can use vegetable or canola oil instead. Just avoid strong oils that can overpower the dish.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is perfect for a lighter sauce. However, you can switch it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Combining beef with ground pork adds extra taste, but feel free to skip the pork if you prefer.
Whole Milk: This adds creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant or want a lighter sauce, try almond milk or a plant-based milk. However, regular milk provides that classic richness that makes this sauce special.
Crushed Tomatoes: Choose quality canned tomatoes for the best results. If you’re in a pinch, diced tomatoes work too! Just blend them a bit for a smoother texture.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Bolognese Sauce?
The key to a delicious Bolognese is to take your time with the cooking process. Start with the vegetables. Sauté them until they’re soft and sweet, which builds the base flavor. Here’s how:
- Cook the onion, carrots, and celery together for 8-10 mins. Always stir occasionally.
- Don’t rush the browning of the meat. Ensure all sides are nicely seared for depth of flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer low and slow. This develops the flavors beautifully. Make sure to cover it partially to prevent splatters but still allow some steam to escape.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth. It should be rich but not dry!
Remember, a good Bolognese is all about patience—you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s comforting and bursting with flavor!
Carmine’s Classic Bolognese Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1/2 pound ground pork (optional for richer flavor)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
- Pasta (such as tagliatelle or pappardelle), cooked according to package instructions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bolognese sauce takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 2 hours of cooking time. It’s a perfect weekend project that fills your kitchen with the most wonderful aromas!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Stir them around and cook until they become soft and translucent—this takes about 8 to 10 minutes. It’s all about building that flavor base!
2. Add Garlic and Meat:
After the veggies are nice and tender, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute just until it becomes fragrant. Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add in the ground beef and pork (if using). Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, which should take about 8 minutes.
3. Pour in Milk and Wine:
Next, pour in the whole milk, and let it simmer gently, stirring often, until most of the milk has evaporated. This is an important step—it adds so much richness to the sauce! It should take about 10 minutes. Then, add the dry white wine and simmer until it’s mostly evaporated too.
4. Add Tomatoes and Spices:
Now stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf, and dried oregano. Season everything generously with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic starts to happen!
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot partially with a lid. Let the sauce simmer gently for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. Make sure to stir occasionally! If it gets too thick, you can always add a splash of water or broth. It should be thick but not dry.
6. Final Touches:
Once the sauce is done simmering, take out the bay leaf. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve:
Now it’s time to enjoy! Serve the Bolognese sauce over your favorite cooked pasta, and generously top it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like.
Enjoy this hearty and soulful classic Italian Bolognese just like Carmine would serve it!
FAQ for Carmine’s Classic Bolognese Sauce
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that it might result in a slightly different flavor profile, but it will still be delicious! You can also combine it with a bit of ground pork for extra richness if desired.
How Can I Store Leftover Bolognese Sauce?
Leftover Bolognese sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container where it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Pasta Pairs Best with Bolognese Sauce?
While traditional Bolognese pairs well with tagliatelle and pappardelle, you can also use fettuccine, spaghetti, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente so it holds up against the hearty sauce!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the meats with finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of milk and adjust seasonings to enhance the flavor. It will still be a delicious sauce!
