Bolognese pasta is a warm and hearty dish that features rich meat sauce served over your favorite noodles. It’s a tasty mix of ground meat, tomatoes, and herbs, perfect for any meal.
I find it’s best enjoyed with a sprinkle of cheese on top! Plus, it’s the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. Who doesn’t love a big plate of pasta, right? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: A classic choice for Bolognese, but you can swap it with any pasta like fettuccine or penne. Personally, I love using linguine for a twist!
Ground Beef: While beef is popular, ground turkey or chicken can be a leaner option. I sometimes mix beef with pork for richer flavor—just a little makes a big difference!
Milk or Heavy Cream: Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can use half-and-half or even cashew milk for a dairy-free option. I often use milk for a lighter touch.
Red Wine: If you want to skip the wine, beef broth works well, adding depth without the alcohol. I usually keep the wine; it enhances the sauce nicely!
How Can You Make Your Bolognese Sauce Extra Flavorful?
Building flavor in your Bolognese is all about the cooking process and using quality ingredients. Here are some key steps:
- Sauté your veggies: Cook the onions, carrots, and celery until soft. This base, called soffritto, adds aromatic depth.
- Deglaze with wine: Pour in the red wine after browning the meat. Scrape the bottom of the pan to lift all those tasty bits!
- Slow simmer: Let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes. This allows flavors to meld beautifully. The longer, the better!
- Adjust seasoning: Always taste as you go! A little more salt and pepper can elevate the dish at the end.
With these tips, you’ll have a rich and delicious Bolognese that’s sure to impress! Happy cooking!
How to Make Bolognese Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30–45 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 1 hour on this delicious Bolognese pasta, perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. After that, drain the pasta and set it aside. Make sure not to rinse the pasta; you want the sauce to cling to it!
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook these vegetables, stirring occasionally, for about 5–7 minutes until they are softened and just starting to brown.
3. Adding Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir it in and cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant, making your kitchen smell wonderful!
4. Browning the Meat:
Now, increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep cooking until the meat is browned all over, which should take about 6–8 minutes.
5. Deglazing the Pan (Optional):
If you’re using red wine, pour it in now to deglaze the pan. Stir the mixture and let it reduce for about 3–4 minutes until most of the wine has evaporated. This step adds some great flavor!
6. Adding Milk:
Now, stir in the milk and let the sauce simmer gently for about 5–7 minutes. This helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and makes the sauce creamy.
7. Mixing in the Tomatoes:
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil to the meat mixture. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all those delicious flavors!
8. Simmering the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low, and cover the pan partially with a lid. Let the sauce simmer gently for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce gets too thick, just add a splash of water to loosen it up.
9. Serving the Pasta:
To serve, place a generous amount of spaghetti on each plate and spoon the hearty Bolognese sauce over the top. It’s all about that saucy goodness!
10. Adding the Finishing Touches:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This adds extra flavor and a lovely presentation!
11. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your classic Bolognese pasta warm. It’s the perfect dish for sharing with family and friends!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds a nutty flavor and is a healthier option. Gluten-free pasta works well too; just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times as they may vary.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Bolognese Pasta?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the Bolognese sauce separately for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave!
Can I Make Bolognese Sauce Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! Substitute the ground meat with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative. For a vegan sauce, replace the milk with a non-dairy milk or vegan cream, and skip the cheese on top!
What Can I Serve with Bolognese Pasta?
Bolognese pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A nice glass of red wine can complement the meal perfectly too!
