Bolognese sauce is a traditional Italian meat-based sauce that’s rich, hearty, and perfect for pairing with pasta. Originating from the city of Bologna, this sauce is a staple in Italian cuisine and is known for its deep flavors, achieved by slow-cooking a combination of ground meat, vegetables, tomatoes, and wine. This recipe for easy Bolognese sauce simplifies the process without compromising on taste, making it accessible for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re making a classic spaghetti Bolognese or lasagna, this sauce is a versatile and satisfying option.
Ingredients for Classic Easy Bolognese Sauce
Meat:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground pork
Vegetables:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional:
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
How to Make Classic Easy Bolognese Sauce
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by finely chopping the onion, carrots, and celery. These vegetables form the classic Italian “soffritto” base, which adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Mince the garlic and set aside.
2. Cook the Meat:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and pork, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
- Season the meat with salt and pepper. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside, leaving behind any rendered fat.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are soft and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add the Liquids and Tomatoes:
- If using, pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce by half.
- Stir in the milk and let it simmer for a few minutes. The milk adds a rich, creamy texture to the sauce.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar (if using). Stir to combine.
5. Season and Simmer:
- Return the browned meat to the pot and stir to combine with the sauce.
- Add the dried oregano, basil, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and let the sauce simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld and develop.
6. Final Touches:
- After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a bit of water or broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken.
7. Serve:
- Serve the Bolognese sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, tagliatelle, or pappardelle.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
About the Main Ingredients
Ground Meat:
The combination of ground beef and pork provides a rich and balanced flavor to the Bolognese sauce. Beef adds a hearty taste, while pork contributes a slight sweetness and tenderness. The fat content from the pork also enhances the sauce’s richness.
Vegetables (Soffritto):
The soffritto, made of finely chopped onions, carrots, and celery, is a traditional base in many Italian dishes. It imparts a natural sweetness and depth of flavor, setting the foundation for the sauce. The vegetables are cooked slowly to develop their full taste.
Tomatoes:
Crushed tomatoes and tomato paste give the sauce its rich tomato flavor and color. Using high-quality canned tomatoes is essential for a vibrant and robust sauce. The tomato paste adds a concentrated tomato essence, while the optional sugar helps to balance the acidity.
Milk:
Milk is a classic ingredient in Bolognese sauce, used to tenderize the meat and add a creamy texture. It also mellows the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a smoother, richer sauce.
Wine:
Adding red wine deepens the flavor of the sauce, bringing complexity and a slight tang. It’s a traditional element in Italian cooking, though it’s optional in this recipe. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with beef or chicken broth.
Herbs and Spices:
The dried oregano, basil, and bay leaf infuse the sauce with aromatic, earthy notes. Red pepper flakes are optional for a touch of heat, while fresh herbs like basil or parsley provide a fresh, bright finish.
This easy Bolognese sauce recipe is perfect for those who love hearty, comforting dishes. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this sauce will elevate your pasta dishes to a new level of deliciousness. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this classic Italian recipe!
