Bolognese Pasta is a warm and hearty dish, perfect for any family dinner. It’s made with ground meat, tomatoes, and a mix of herbs, creating a tasty sauce that’s oh-so-satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is used for sautéing the vegetables. You can substitute it with canola or vegetable oil if preferred. I’ve found that olive oil adds a lovely rich flavor!
Ground Meat: The classic is a mix of beef and pork, but you can use turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or mushrooms for that meaty texture!
Milk: Whole milk is perfect for this recipe, but you could use low-fat milk or a dairy-free version like almond milk. I always prefer real milk as it makes the sauce creamier.
Crushed Tomatoes: This is the base of your sauce, but if you’re out, tomato paste or fresh tomatoes can work too. Just add a bit of water to keep the consistency right.
Pasta: While tagliatelle or fettuccine is traditional, any pasta like spaghetti or penne will do. My personal favorite is pappardelle, as it holds the sauce really well!
How Do I Get the Sauce to Taste Amazing?
Making a great Bolognese sauce takes time and patience, but it’s worth it! The key is in the simmering process.
- Start by sautéing your vegetables until they’re soft. This builds the base flavors!
- When adding ground meat, break it down well to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- The white wine isn’t just optional—it adds depth! If you skip it, consider using a splash of vinegar for brightness.
- Let that sauce simmer! The longer, the better—1.5 hours gives it a rich, deep flavor.
Lastly, always remember to taste and adjust your seasoning before serving. A little salt or extra herbs can make a huge difference!
How to Make Bolognese Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces tagliatelle or fettuccine pasta
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bolognese Pasta recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 1.5 hours of cooking time for the sauce. So, in total, you’re looking at about 2 hours before you can dig into a delicious plate of pasta! Don’t worry, most of that time is just letting the sauce simmer while you relax.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté them until they are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This combination really brings out the flavors right from the start!
2. Cook the Ground Meat:
Add the ground beef (or your preferred meat mix) to the pan. Season it with salt and pepper. Cook until the meat is nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, which should take about 8-10 minutes. If there’s extra fat in the pan, you can drain it off.
3. Deglaze with Wine:
If you’re using white wine, pour it into the pan to deglaze, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Cook until the wine has mostly evaporated, around 3-4 minutes. This step really boosts the flavor!
4. Add Milk:
Stir in the milk and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it has mostly evaporated. This helps to mellow the acidity of the tomatoes and makes the sauce creamy.
5. Combine with Tomatoes and Herbs:
Next, add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Mix everything well until combined.
6. Let It Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently, uncovered, for at least 1 to 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking. The longer it simmers, the richer and thicker it will become!
7. Cook the Pasta:
About 10-12 minutes before you’re ready to serve, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Remember to reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining!
8. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Drain the pasta and toss it with the Bolognese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. This will help the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta!
9. Serve It Up:
Plate the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your comforting Bolognese pasta, perfect for any cozy dinner!
Buon Appetito!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that still delivers a delicious flavor. Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier than beef, so you may want to add a little extra milk or olive oil to keep it moist.
Is It Necessary to Use White Wine?
While white wine enhances the flavor of the sauce significantly, it’s not essential. If you prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, or simply skip it altogether and add a splash of vinegar for a little acidity.
How Can I Store Leftover Bolognese Pasta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm on the stove over low heat. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up as it heats.
Can I Freeze the Bolognese Sauce?
Yes, the sauce freezes wonderfully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To use, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.