Bolognese Meat Sauce
Nothing beats the comforting aroma of a simmering Bolognese meat sauce wafting through your kitchen, promising a delicious and hearty meal. This classic Italian sauce is a time-honored favorite, perfect for drizzling over al dente pasta or layering in a lasagna. With rich flavors that develop over a slow cooking process, Bolognese meat sauce is a staple that every home cook should have in their repertoire.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Saute for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
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Add the garlic and saute for another minute until fragrant.
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Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef and pork. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and cooked through.
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Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
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Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
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Add the crushed tomatoes, beef or chicken broth, milk, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
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Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover with a lid slightly ajar and let it cook for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
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After 2 hours, check the consistency of the sauce. If it's too thick, add a little more broth. If it's too thin, simmer uncovered for a bit longer.
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Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
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Remove the bay leaf before serving.
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Serve the Bolognese meat sauce over your favorite pasta, such as tagliatelle or spaghetti, and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 serving- Calories
- 380 kcal
- Total Fat
- 21 g
- Saturated Fat
- 7 g
- Cholesterol
- 75 mg
- Sodium
- 620 mg
- Total Carbohydrate
- 15 g
- Dietary Fiber
- 3 g
- Sugars
- 8 g
- Protein
- 28 g
This Bolognese meat sauce recipe is a labor of love that rewards you with a robust and flavorsome sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta dishes. Don't rush the cooking process; let the ingredients meld together slowly to create a truly satisfying sauce. Make a double batch and freeze leftovers for a quick and delicious meal on busy days. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this Bolognese meat sauce will be a surefire hit at your table.