Homemade Bolognese Sauce
A rich and comforting Bolognese sauce perfect for pasta nights or a hearty family dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 medium-sized Onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium-sized Carrot, finely chopped
- 1 stalk Celery, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- 1 can (28 oz) Canned Tomatoes, crushed
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Red Wine (optional)
- ½ cup Milk or Cream (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Brown the meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef, cooking until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
- Deglaze the pot: Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits, and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and seasoning: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Simmer: Cover and let simmer for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish with milk: Stir in the milk or cream during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Notes
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. This sauce develops richer flavors when simmered longer.