This Pasta Bolognese recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines a rich, slow-simmered meat sauce with perfectly cooked pasta. It's a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. The recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
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Heat olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to caramelize. Pour in the wine and let it simmer until mostly evaporated, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the crushed tomatoes, milk, thyme, and bay leaf. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or stock if it thickens too much. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Remove the bay leaf from the sauce. Toss the cooked pasta with the Bolognese sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen it.
Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and optional fresh parsley or basil.
For a deeper flavor, let the sauce simmer for the full 2 hours.
Use fresh pasta for a more authentic taste, but dried pasta works just as well.
If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute it with chicken or beef stock.
Grate the Parmesan cheese fresh for the best flavor.
Can I make the Bolognese sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
What type of pasta works best with Bolognese sauce?
Tagliatelle, pappardelle, or spaghetti are traditional choices, but any pasta will work.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
What can I use instead of white wine?
You can substitute white wine with chicken or beef stock, or even water if needed.
Is it necessary to add milk to the sauce?
Yes, milk adds a subtle creaminess and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
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