This hearty Bolognese sauce is packed with flavor and made with ground meat, tomatoes, and aromatic veggies. It’s perfect for tossing with pasta or layering in a lasagna!
I love how this sauce fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting smell. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra to enjoy it later. It’s like a big hug in a bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing the veggies. If you like, you can substitute it with butter for a different flavor profile.
Ground Meat: The mix of beef and pork gives depth to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. For vegetarian, crumble some tempeh or use lentils.
Whole Milk: This makes the sauce creamy. Substitute with heavy cream for a richer taste, or use almond milk for a dairy-free option (just be mindful of the flavor).
Dry White Wine: It adds acidity and complexity. If you don’t cook with wine, use chicken broth or a splash of vinegar mixed with water.
Nutmeg: It may seem unusual, but this warm spice enhances the flavors. You can skip it or use cinnamon instead if you’re out of nutmeg.
How Do I Ensure My Bolognese Sauce Is Rich and Flavorful?
Cooking this sauce slowly is the key to developing its deep flavors. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a low heat for the vegetables to soften without browning. This builds a sweeter base.
- Allow the milk to simmer until almost evaporated; this adds tenderness and depth.
- Let the sauce simmer for at least 2 hours—longer if you can manage! This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Don’t forget to taste during cooking! Adjust the seasoning gradually.
With these tips, you’ll make a Bolognese sauce that has everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy! 🍝
Carmine’s Classic Bolognese Sauce Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably a mix of chuck and sirloin)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need to let the sauce simmer for at least 2 hours (the longer, the better!) so all the flavors can develop beautifully. Altogether, you’re looking at a total of around 2 hours and 15 minutes, but your patience will be well rewarded with a delicious classic sauce!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 8-10 minutes until the vegetables have softened and are fragrant but not browned. This mix gives the sauce a fantastic flavor base!
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, letting it become fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Brown the Meat:
Now, raise the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef and pork to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat, and let it brown all over, taking about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
4. Add the Milk:
Pour in the whole milk and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir often until most of the milk has evaporated. This step makes the meat tender and adds richness to the sauce.
5. Pour in the Wine:
Next, add the dry white wine, cooking until it mostly evaporates. This will enhance the sauce’s flavor even more!
6. Mix in the Tomatoes:
Now stir in those delicious crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if you’re using it, giving everything a good stir to combine.
7. Let It Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently, uncovered, for at least 2 hours. Stir occasionally, and check for thickness and flavor. If you can, let it simmer longer to deepen the flavor wonderful!
8. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste your Bolognese sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
9. Serve & Enjoy!
Serve your hearty Bolognese sauce hot over your favorite pasta. Don’t forget to garnish it with freshly chopped basil or parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy this classic Italian taste and share it with loved ones!
Buon Appetito!
FAQ for Carmine’s Classic Bolognese Sauce
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef and Pork?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Keep in mind that it may result in a slightly different flavor, but it will still be delicious. You might want to add a touch more seasoning to enhance the taste!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, definitely! This sauce actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. You can make it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat on the stove before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bolognese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing!
What Pasta Pairs Best with Bolognese Sauce?
Bolognese sauce pairs wonderfully with tagliatelle, pappardelle, or any pasta that can hold the rich sauce well. You could also use rigatoni or even spaghetti if that’s your preference!