Description
This classic Italian Pasta Bolognese recipe features a rich and hearty meat sauce made with ground beef and pork, simmered with fresh vegetables, tomatoes, and herbs. Served over your choice of pasta and topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, this comforting dish is perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bolognese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 500 g (1.1 lbs) ground beef
- 200 g (7oz) ground pork
- 100 ml (3.4 fl oz) red wine
- 400 g (14oz) can of crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 400 g (14oz) pasta, such as tagliatelle or spaghetti
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent to release flavor.
- Add vegetables: Stir in the grated carrot and chopped celery, continue to sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and meld with the aromatics.
- Brown the meat: Turn up the heat to high and add the ground beef and pork. Cook until the meat is fully browned, breaking up any large chunks to ensure even cooking and texture.
- Deglaze with wine: Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for about 3 minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors before combining with the tomatoes.
- Add tomatoes and seasoning: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Combine well to create the sauce base.
- Simmer the sauce: Add the broth, fresh basil, and dried oregano. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
- Season the sauce: Taste the sauce and add salt and freshly ground pepper to your preference.
- Cook the pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly.
- Serve: Plate the cooked pasta, spoon the Bolognese sauce over it, and top generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an authentic Italian finish.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth if possible.
- You can substitute ground beef and pork with minced turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Red wine can be omitted or replaced with extra broth if desired.
- Leftover sauce freezes well and can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Tagliatelle or spaghetti are traditional pasta choices but feel free to use your favorite type.
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 1h 0m
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
