Bolognese Sauce: A Cozy Italian Classic

There’s nothing quite like the smell of a pot of Bolognese sauce simmering away on the stove. This rich, slow-cooked sauce is a true Italian comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and perfect for gathering loved ones around the dinner table. With tender ground meat, aromatic vegetables, tomatoes, and just a touch of creaminess, Bolognese Sauce transforms a simple bowl of pasta into something unforgettable. Best of all? It’s easier to make than you think, with simple pantry ingredients and a little time.

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Cooked pasta (tagliatelle, spaghetti, or pappardelle)

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Start with the aromatics. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Brown the meat. Add the ground beef and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Add the liquids. Stir in milk and simmer until mostly absorbed—this softens the richness of the meat.
4. Tomatoes and seasonings. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and bay leaves. Stir everything together.
5. Simmer low and slow. Reduce heat to low, cover partially with a lid, and let the sauce simmer gently for at least 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.
6. Final touch. Remove bay leaves, taste, and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve. Toss with freshly cooked pasta and garnish with parsley or Parmesan cheese.

Cooking Tip: Don’t rush the simmering—low and slow cooking is what gives Bolognese its deep, savory flavor.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Make ahead: Bolognese tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prep.
• Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Sauce thickness: If the sauce reduces too much, add a splash of stock or water.

Recipe Variations

1. Meat options: Swap ground beef with a mix of beef, and veal for a richer, traditional flavor.
2. Vegetarian Bolognese: Use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat for a hearty plant-based version.
3. Creamy touch: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a velvety finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic pairing: Serve over tagliatelle or pappardelle for the most authentic experience.
• Cozy side: Add a slice of garlic bread or focaccia to soak up every drop.
• Fresh balance: Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

This Bolognese Sauce is a labor of love that rewards you with rich, comforting flavors. Whether you’re cooking for Sunday supper, a dinner party, or just craving a cozy pasta night, this sauce is guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your table. Pour it over pasta, share it with loved ones, and let it remind you of the simple magic of home-cooked meals.