Easy Classic Bolognese Recipe
This Classic Bolognese Recipe is a hearty, meat-based Italian sauce that's slow-cooked to perfection with beef, pork, tomatoes, wine, and milk. It's perfect for serving over pasta for an easy yet elevated weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and a touch of patience, you’ll create a rich, flavorful sauce that the whole family will love.
Equipment
- Equipment:
- Heavy-Bottomed Dutch Oven
- Wooden Spoon for Stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 1 lb ground beef 85% lean – Recommended Ground Beef Source from Amazon
- 1/2 lb ground pork – Recommended Ground Pork from Amazon
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup dry white or red wine
- 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes – San Marzano Tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg optional – Organic Nutmeg
- Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese for garnish – Recommended Parmesan Cheese
Instructions
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the ground beef and pork. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Reduce heat and slowly add in the milk, stirring continuously. Let it simmer until almost all the milk evaporates.
- Pour in the wine and simmer to reduce slightly.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and stir. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve over pasta with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
Notes
Recipe Tips
Patience is Key: The longer the sauce simmers, the richer the flavor. Consider cooking for up to 4 hours if you have the time.
Wine Choice: Dry red wine adds depth, while white wine keeps it lighter. If you prefer, you can omit it and use extra broth.
Consistent Stirring: Stir occasionally to prevent burning at the bottom and ensure even cooking.
Milk Adds Creaminess: Don't skip adding milk—it balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enriches the sauce.
Quality Ingredients: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes and freshly ground meat for the best flavor.
Patience is Key: The longer the sauce simmers, the richer the flavor. Consider cooking for up to 4 hours if you have the time.
Wine Choice: Dry red wine adds depth, while white wine keeps it lighter. If you prefer, you can omit it and use extra broth.
Consistent Stirring: Stir occasionally to prevent burning at the bottom and ensure even cooking.
Milk Adds Creaminess: Don't skip adding milk—it balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enriches the sauce.
Quality Ingredients: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes and freshly ground meat for the best flavor.