Classic Bolognese Sauce Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Rich & Flavorful Pasta Sauce

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of pasta smothered in a rich, meaty Bolognese sauce. This Classic Bolognese Sauce Recipe is a timeless favorite, offering a perfect balance of savory flavors, tender textures, and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a great choice for anyone in the USA looking to create a restaurant-quality dish at home.

What makes this Bolognese sauce stand out? It’s all about the slow simmering process, which allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite herbs, spices, or even swap out the meat for a plant-based alternative. Let’s dive into the details!

Recipe Overview

Ingredients for Classic Bolognese Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty Bolognese sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with ground turkey or plant-based meat)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect Bolognese sauce:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
2. Brown the Meat:
   Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Add Milk and Simmer:
   Pour in the milk and let it simmer until mostly absorbed, about 5 minutes. This step adds richness to the sauce.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasonings:
   Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
5. Simmer Slowly:
   Cover the pot partially and let the sauce simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavors will develop.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Remove the bay leaf and discard. Serve the Bolognese sauce over your favorite pasta (tagliatelle or spaghetti works great). Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.

Why You’ll Love This Bolognese Sauce Recipe

This Classic Bolognese Sauce Recipe is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons:

• It’s rich, hearty, and packed with layers of flavor.
• The slow-cooking process ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• It’s customizable—swap ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.
• Perfect for meal prep or feeding a hungry family.

FAQs

1. How to make Bolognese sauce thicker?
If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste to thicken it.

2. Can I substitute the meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version.

3. How long does Bolognese sauce last in the fridge?
Store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

4. What’s the best pasta for Bolognese sauce?
Tagliatelle, pappardelle, or spaghetti are classic choices, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.

5. Can I make this sauce in a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the meat and vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

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Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate Classic Bolognese Sauce Recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its rich flavors, tender texture, and endless customization options, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

We’d love to hear how your Bolognese sauce turns out! Share your experience in the comments below or tag us on social media with your creations. And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates.