Bolognese Pasta is a hearty dish featuring tender pasta smothered in a rich meat sauce. Made with ground meat, tomatoes, and a touch of spices, it’s both filling and tasty!
This meal always warms my heart, kind of like a big hug! I love sprinkling some cheese on top before serving—because who doesn’t love a cheesy pasta moment? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend tagliatelle or fettuccine as they hold the sauce well. However, feel free to use any pasta you like—spaghetti or penne can work great too!
Meat: Ground beef is a classic choice, but you can mix it with pork for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or even a meat-free substitute like lentils can be delicious.
Wine: While white wine adds depth to the sauce, you can simply omit it or use chicken broth instead. It won’t be the same, but it’ll still be tasty!
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy texture, but you could use half-and-half or even a plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
Tomatoes: You can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Just be sure to peel and chop them, and adjust cooking time as needed!
How Do I Create the Richest Flavor in My Bolognese Sauce?
The key to a delicious Bolognese is slow cooking. Take your time to simmer the sauce, as this helps deepen the flavors. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by sautéing the vegetables until soft, as this forms the flavor base.
- Brown the meat well to develop a good color and flavor.
- After adding the tomatoes, let the sauce simmer gently for at least 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally and don’t rush this step!
- If the sauce thickens too much, use some reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
These small steps make a world of difference, so don’t skip them! Enjoy your cooking!
Bolognese Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) tagliatelle or fettuccine pasta
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 can (14 oz/400 g) crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bolognese Pasta takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to cook, for a total of about 1 hour. The longer you let the sauce simmer, the more flavorful it will be!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Afterward, drain the pasta and set it aside, but remember to save a cup of pasta water for later!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add Garlic and Meat:
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell it. Then, add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink.
4. Introduce Wine and Milk:
If you’re using white wine, pour it into the pan now. Let it simmer for a few minutes until mostly evaporated, which will help concentrate the flavors. Next, pour in the milk and gently cook until the milk has reduced by half. This will make the sauce creamy and delicious!
5. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning:
Now add in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together well.
6. Let It Simmer:
Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for at least 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Combine and Serve:
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing well so that every strand is coated. Serve in bowls, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley to add a fresh touch. Enjoy your hearty and delicious Bolognese Pasta!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option if you’re looking for a healthier alternative. Just keep in mind that it may take a bit longer to cook, so adjust the timing according to the package instructions.
Can I Make Bolognese Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Simply make the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove before tossing it with freshly cooked pasta. This allows the flavors to meld even more!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little pasta water if needed to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Freeze the Bolognese Sauce?
Definitely! The sauce freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.