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Bolognese Sauce Recipe

The Best Bolognese Sauce Recipe for Cozy Nights In

Discover the comforting flavors of this Bolognese Sauce Recipe, perfect for cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Bolognese Sauce Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef Choose high-quality lean beef for better flavor and texture.
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped Use yellow or white onion for a sweeter taste.
  • 2 medium carrots, finely diced Fresh carrots add natural sweetness and color.
  • 2 stalks celery, finely diced Celery contributes a lovely depth and crunch.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic enhances aroma and flavor.
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes Go for San Marzano tomatoes for true Italian flavor.
  • 6 oz tomato paste Thickens the sauce and enriches the color.
  • 1 cup beef broth Adds moisture and savory notes; substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano A key herb that complements the meaty sauce beautifully.
  • 1 tsp dried basil A fragrant addition that brings a hint of sweetness.
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes Adjust to taste; it adds just the right amount of heat.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Essential for balancing flavors.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Use extra virgin for the best quality.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional) Brightens the dish and adds freshness.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving An indulgent way to finish your pasta dish.
  • Cooked pasta of choice Choose your favorite pasta to embrace this Bolognese Sauce Recipe fully!

Equipment

  • large pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

How to Make Bolognese Sauce
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the finely chopped onion. Sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, finely diced carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes.
  4. Increase the heat to medium-high and add 1 lb of ground beef. Cook until completely browned, stirring occasionally, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
  6. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially and let it simmer for at least 1 hour.
  7. Occasionally taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
  8. While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta of choice according to package instructions until al dente.
  9. Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Make more than you need! Bolognese sauce tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect choice for meal prep.

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