What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade Bolognese recipe is a comforting classic that’s easy to make and packed with rich, savory flavors. You’ll love how it turns simple ingredients into a meal that feels like a warm hug.
- Hearty and satisfying—the slow-simmered sauce clings to every bite of pasta, making it irresistible.
- Versatile and crowd-pleasing—perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.
- Freezer-friendly—make a big batch and enjoy the deliciousness anytime you need a quick meal.
Recipe
Bolognese is a classic Italian meat-based sauce that’s rich, hearty, and perfect for pairing with pasta. This recipe stays true to its traditional roots, using simple ingredients to create a deeply flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add ground beef and pork. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Pour in milk and simmer until mostly evaporated, about 5 minutes.
- Add white wine and simmer until reduced by half, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Remove bay leaf, stir in Parmesan cheese, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve over cooked pasta, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan.
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, simmer the sauce for up to 3-4 hours.
- Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2-4 hours
Cuisine:
Italian
Serving:
6-8 servings
Nutrition
This homemade Bolognese recipe is packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love figuring out the perfect pasta pairings for my Bolognese, whether it’s classic spaghetti or something fun like pappardelle. My go-to side dish is a simple green salad or garlic bread, but roasted veggies work great too. It’s all about finding what complements the rich, savory sauce without overpowering it.
Pasta Pairings
When you’ve got a rich, hearty Bolognese simmering on the stove, you’ll want to pair it with something that complements its flavors perfectly. I love tossing it with thick, chewy pappardelle—the wide ribbons cradle the sauce beautifully. Tagliatelle’s another winner, its ridges holding onto every bit of meaty goodness. If you’re craving something lighter, spaghetti works, but go for bronze-cut for better texture. For a twist, try rigatoni—the tubes trap pockets of sauce in each bite. Whatever pasta you choose, cook it al dente; it’ll stand up to the boldness of the Bolognese without turning mushy. Trust me, it makes all the difference.
Side Dishes Choices
Although a bowl of Bolognese and pasta is a meal on its own, adding a side dish can turn it into something extra special. I love pairing it with garlic bread—crispy on the outside, soft inside, perfect for soaking up sauce. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while roasted veggies like zucchini or eggplant add a hearty touch. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll serve it with crispy polenta fries. Trust me, these sides elevate the meal without stealing the spotlight. Experiment and find your favorite combo—it’s all about balance and flavor!
