Bolognese Pasta is a hearty dish featuring rich meat sauce, perfect for cozy dinners. It’s made with ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs, creating a warm and filling experience.
Whenever I make it, the smell fills the house and makes everyone hungry! I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra yumminess. It’s comfort food at its best!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Spaghetti and linguine are classic choices for Bolognese. You can swap for fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta if needed. The key is to have something sturdy to hold the sauce well!
Ground Beef: I usually stick with ground beef, but a mix of beef and pork works great too! If you want a lighter option, shredded chicken or even lentils for a vegetarian version can be delicious substitutes.
Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes give a nice texture, but you can use tomato sauce or even diced tomatoes in a pinch. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to chop them up instead!
Wine: The white wine adds depth, but you can omit it if preferred. Just replace it with extra broth or a splash of vinegar for a similar tangy effect.
Milk/Cream: To make it creamier, whole milk or cream can really elevate the dish. If you’re watching your dairy intake, try unsweetened almond milk or oat cream for a lighter twist.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Sauce Consistency?
The sauce’s richness is key to a good Bolognese. After browning your meat well, don’t rush the simmering process! Aim for a low heat to let the flavors meld together. Here are some tips:
- Start on medium heat for sautéing, and then reduce to low once the sauce ingredients are mixed.
- Keep it uncovered while simmering so excess moisture evaporates, helping with thickness.
- Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom. Scraping it from the bottom releases extra flavor!
- If it’s soupy after cooking, just let it simmer longer. If it looks dry, stir in a little more broth or water.
By keeping an eye on consistency as it cooks, you’ll be rewarded with a beautifully rich sauce every time!
Bolognese Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or linguine pasta
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons 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 cup canned crushed tomatoes or tomato purée
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup whole milk or cream (optional, for richness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and about 45 minutes for the sauce to simmer. Add cook time for the pasta, and you’ll have a delightful meal on the table in about 1 hour. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. When it’s bubbling, add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and aromatic.
3. Add Garlic and Beef:
Mix in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell its goodness. Then, increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef, and cook it until browned and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Don’t forget to break it apart with a spoon as it cooks!
4. Build the Flavor:
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors. If you’re using white wine, pour it in now and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until most of the liquid evaporates.
5. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Now, add in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well to combine all those lovely flavors.
6. Simmer the Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally. This will help everything thicken and develop a deliciously rich sauce.
7. Make It Creamy:
If you want a creamier sauce, stir in the milk or cream during the last 5 minutes of the cooking time.
8. Combine with Pasta:
Now it’s time to toss! Add the cooked pasta to the Bolognese sauce and mix until the pasta is well-coated. Alternatively, you can serve the sauce over the pasta on individual plates.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your Bolognese Pasta hot! Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.
Enjoy your hearty and delicious Bolognese Pasta!
Can I Use Lean Ground Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich, so consider adding a bit more olive oil or extra milk for creaminess.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Bolognese Pasta?
Leftover Bolognese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the Bolognese sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a couple of days. Just reheat it on the stove before serving with freshly cooked pasta for a quick meal!
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Recipe?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian Bolognese by substituting ground meat with lentils, quinoa, or finely chopped mushrooms. Just follow the same cooking steps, and you’ll have a delicious meat-free version!