Description
Bolognese Sauce is a rich and hearty Italian meat sauce made with ground beef, aromatic vegetables, tomatoes, and a splash of wine and milk, slow-simmered to perfection for a classic pasta topping.
Ingredients
Units
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- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 7 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
- Pour in white wine and simmer until mostly evaporated, about 3–5 minutes.
- Stir in milk and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing it to absorb into the meat.
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir to combine.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve over pasta and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Bolognese tastes better the longer it simmers—low and slow is key.
- Use a mix of beef and pork for deeper flavor if desired.
- This sauce freezes well; make extra for later meals.
- Serve with tagliatelle, fettuccine, or your favorite pasta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg