Classic Italian Bolognese Sauce: Slow-Simmered Comfort in Every Bite

Classic Bolognese Sauce for Dinner

Introduction to Your Meaty Ragù

First up: This bolognese recipe transforms simple ingredients into a meaty, tomato-rich pasta sauce that’s perfect for any family dinner. Imagine a savory ragù of ground beef, aromatic mirepoix, white wine, and milk, all slow-simmered until lush and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Pasta Sauce

• Rich Flavor: A perfect balance of tomatoes, milk, and wine.
• Versatile: Serve over tagliatelle, spaghetti, or polenta.
• Make-Ahead: Slow-simmer, then refrigerate or freeze for quick meals.

Ingredients for Authentic Bolognese

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 28 ounces canned plum tomatoes, crushed
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Melt fats: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil until bubbling.
2. Sauté veggies: Add onion, celery, carrot, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring, until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Brown the beef: Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no pink remains, about 8 minutes.
4. Add milk: Pour in milk and simmer gently until absorbed, 5–7 minutes.
5. Deglaze: Stir in wine, cook until liquid reduces by half, about 5 minutes.
6. Tomatoes join: Mix in crushed plum tomatoes, bring to a gentle simmer.
7. Long simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
8. Season & serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve over your favorite pasta with grated Parmesan.

Chef’s Tips & Tricks

• For deeper flavor, use half-ground beef and half-pork.
• Replace milk with heavy cream for a luxuriously smooth sauce.
• Let it rest overnight—flavors meld beautifully when reheated.

Nutrition per serving: 394 calories | 14 g carbs | 23 g protein | 21 g fat | 9 g sugar | 2 g fiber | 84 mg cholesterol | 935 mg sodium.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 3 hours 20 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes

Yields: 6 servings

Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty bolognese with al dente tagliatelle, a crisp green salad, and crusty bread. Dust with Parmesan and finish with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for an authentic Italian experience.

Final thought: Nothing beats a classic bolognese to warm your soul on chilly evenings—give this meaty sauce a try, and let each slow-simmered spoonful transport you straight to Italy.

Recipe source: Allrecipes