BOLOGNESE SAUCE
This Bolognese Sauce is rich, hearty, and full of savory Italian flavors. Made with ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, it’s perfect for pasta dishes, lasagna, or any comforting Italian meal at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 carrot finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk finely chopped
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup red wine optional
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup whole milk or cream optional, for richness
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
- Cook Meat: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Tomatoes & Seasoning: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer gently for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Finish: Stir in milk or cream if desired for a richer sauce. Adjust seasoning. Serve over pasta or use in lasagna.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge; flavors improve overnight.
- Customizing the Flavor: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or a pinch of chili flakes for variation.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with spaghetti, fettuccine, or use in lasagna or baked pasta dishes.
- Allergy-Friendly Options: Naturally gluten-free; ensure wine or broth used is gluten-free if needed.
- Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.