Pasta Bolognese is a comforting and hearty Italian dish featuring tender pasta topped with a rich, meaty tomato sauce.
Pasta Bolognese
4
servings15
minutes1
hour30
minutesPacked with flavors from onions, garlic, herbs, and a touch of wine, this classic recipe is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, finely diced
2 celery stalks, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
500g (1 lb) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
1 can (400g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup milk or cream (optional for a richer sauce)
400g (14 oz) spaghetti or tagliatelle
Salt for boiling water
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Pour in the wine (if using) and let it simmer until mostly evaporated, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- For a creamier texture, stir in milk or cream during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the Bolognese sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.
