Bolognese Pasta is a comforting dish that features soft pasta smothered in a rich meat sauce. It’s hearty and perfect for a family dinner!
Honestly, I love how the flavors come together; it feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, that sauce is great for leftovers—if there are any! 😂
Making this dish is easy! Just cook the pasta and let the sauce simmer while you wait. It’s a satisfying meal that’s simple and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Fresh tagliatelle or fettuccine gives a wonderful texture. If you can’t find these, use any pasta you enjoy like spaghetti or penne. Just remember to adjust the cooking time!
Ground meat: A mix of beef and pork adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works too. Just season well to keep the flavor strong.
Wine: Dry white wine helps deepen the flavor of the sauce. If you prefer not to use wine, a splash of broth (chicken or beef) works well as a substitute.
Milk or cream: Whole milk adds creaminess without being too rich. If you’re dairy-free, try almond or oat milk for a similar effect.
How Do I Get the Sauce Just Right?
Cooking the sauce slowly is key to making it flavorful. Don’t rush it! Here’s how to achieve that perfect Bolognese:
- Start with sautéing the veggies until tender. This builds the foundation of flavor.
- When browning the meat, ensure it’s fully cooked without any pink bits; that way, you get a nice depth of flavor.
- The deglazing with white wine is crucial—a good stir will lift any delicious bits stuck on the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer and reduce!
- Always taste and adjust with salt and pepper before serving; this can really enhance the flavors!
Letting the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes really helps the flavors meld, making your Bolognese so much better!
Bolognese Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Sauce Base:
- 12 oz (340 g) fresh tagliatelle or fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Meat and Tomatoes:
- 1/2 pound (225 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 pound (115 g) ground pork (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Dairy and Seasoning:
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bolognese Pasta recipe takes about 20 minutes for prep and around 1 hour for simmering, totaling approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. It allows the flavors to develop beautifully while you prepare the pasta!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery, sautéing until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until it’s fragrant and delicious.
2. Brown the Meat:
Next, increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef (and pork if you’re using it). Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks for an even texture.
3. Deglaze and Simmer:
Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until it reduces by about half. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, and then lower the heat. Let the sauce simmer gently for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it thickens up too much, just add a splash of water.
4. Add Dairy:
Once your sauce has thickened nicely, stir in the milk or heavy cream and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste—you want to make sure it’s rich and flavorful!
5. Cook the Pasta:
While your sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tagliatelle or fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, keeping a small cup of the pasta cooking water aside for later!
6. Combine and Serve:
Toss the cooked pasta with a bit of the reserved pasta water along with a portion of the Bolognese sauce to coat the noodles well. Plate it up, topping generously with more Bolognese sauce, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a generous helping of grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your comforting Bolognese Pasta! Each bite should be packed with hearty flavors and a wonderful texture.
This recipe yields a luscious, meaty sauce that envelops the tender pasta, completing a delightful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef and pork provide great flavor, you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just remember to season well to keep the flavor rich!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the Bolognese sauce ahead of time! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop before serving with freshly cooked pasta.
What Should I Serve with Bolognese Pasta?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra milk to loosen the sauce if needed, and warm gently on the stovetop.