The Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that carries the rich heritage of Italy right to your dining table. This dish combines tender minced beef simmered in a luscious tomato and herb sauce, perfectly melding with al dente pasta to create a hearty, aromatic meal. Whether you are making it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this beloved recipe never fails to impress with its deep, layered flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe, the ingredients are refreshingly simple, yet each one plays an essential role in building a sauce that is rich, savory, and bursting with authentic taste. From fresh aromatics to the robust beef and perfectly balanced herbs, every component counts toward crafting a dish you’ll want to return to again and again.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Essential for gently softening the vegetables and adding subtle fruitiness.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet base that mellows and deepens the sauce’s flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Offers a fragrant punch that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 carrot, finely diced: Adds a natural sweetness and tender texture.
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced: Brings an earthy crunch and balances the sweetness of carrot and onion.
- 1 lb ground beef: The rich protein base that makes this sauce hearty and filling.
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional): Adds depth and complexity, enhancing the meaty flavors.
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes: The tomato heart of the sauce, providing tang and a lovely color.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies tomato flavors and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup beef broth: Keeps the sauce moist and adds a savory underpinning.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Delivers a warm, slightly peppery herbal note.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Offers a sweet and fragrant lift in each bite.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together perfectly.
- 12 oz pasta (tagliatelle or spaghetti): The tender strands that carry the sauce with every mouthful.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving: Adds a salty, nutty finish that melts on top delightfully.
How to Make Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by warming the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery. Cook these down gently for about 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and their natural sweetness starts to shine through. This step builds the flavorful foundation of your Bolognese sauce, so be patient and let those aromas bloom.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to your softened vegetables. Cook it thoroughly, breaking up any large clumps with a wooden spoon. Browning the meat properly is key, as it develops complex, caramelized notes that deepen the overall taste and make the sauce irresistibly savory.
Step 3: Add Red Wine (Optional)
If you’re using wine, pour in the dry red wine now and allow it to simmer until it has mostly evaporated. This step is a little magic touch that lifts the sauce with acidity and richness, enhancing the meatiness without overpowering the delicate balance of flavors.
Step 4: Stir in Tomatoes and Herbs
Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the tomato paste and beef broth. Sprinkle in the oregano and basil, then season with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will form the heart of your sauce, and the herbs bring that unmistakable Italian charm that makes this Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe a true delight.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low and let your sauce simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow cooking allows the flavors to marry and thicken the sauce to that perfect consistency where the richness shines and every bite feels comforting and well-rounded.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook your chosen pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside so it’s ready for plating when the sauce reaches its full glory.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Ladle the luscious Bolognese sauce generously over your warm pasta and finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts slightly, adding a beautiful, savory top note that completes this classic Italian dish perfectly.
How to Serve Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh parsley or a few basil leaves over the plated pasta adds a vibrant splash of color and fresh herbal aroma that makes each bite exciting. Of course, a generous shower of freshly grated Parmesan transforms this simple plate into a rich sensory experience.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, balancing the richness of the Bolognese. Garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf is also delightful, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe in individual pasta bowls garnished with a twirl of fresh herbs. You can also top it with a poached egg for extra indulgence or layer it in a pasta bake with fresh mozzarella for a cozy, family-style meal that feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Bolognese sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pasta separate if possible to prevent it from becoming soggy, and reheat just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
The sauce freezes wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months, ready to thaw and warm up when you crave that comforting Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to loosen the sauce, and add a splash of beef broth or water if it has thickened too much. For pasta, microwave with a little sprinkle of water to maintain tenderness, ensuring your leftovers taste just as delicious as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner alternative and will still absorb the wonderful flavors of the sauce. Just be mindful to cook it thoroughly and maybe add a bit more seasoning for richness.
Is the red wine necessary in this Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe?
The wine adds depth and enhances the overall flavor, but if you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can simply omit it and substitute with extra beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.
What type of pasta works best with Bolognese sauce?
Traditionally, tagliatelle is used because its wide, flat shape holds the thick sauce beautifully. Spaghetti is a great alternative that is more common and equally delicious.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with finely chopped mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute. Cook them with the aromatics and follow the same steps for a flavorful vegetarian version.
Why should I simmer the sauce for so long?
The slow, gentle simmer lets the flavors marry and develop complexity while reducing the sauce to a luscious consistency. It also tenderizes the meat and allows the tomato and herbs to fully infuse.
Final Thoughts
Making this Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe is like opening a warm invitation to Italy’s rich food tradition right in your own kitchen. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that’s surprisingly simple to master and always rewarding to share. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
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Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This classic Italian Pasta Bolognese features a rich, savory meat sauce simmered with aromatic vegetables, tomatoes, and herbs, served over your favorite pasta. A comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 12 oz pasta (tagliatelle or spaghetti)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon to ensure it is evenly cooked.
- Deglaze with wine: If using red wine, pour it into the skillet and simmer until it has mostly evaporated, enhancing the flavor of the sauce.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors and thicken the sauce.
- Cook pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Serve: Plate the cooked pasta and ladle the Bolognese sauce over it. Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, allow the sauce to simmer longer if possible, up to 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Using red wine is optional but adds complexity to the sauce.
- Tagliatelle or spaghetti are traditional pasta choices that complement the thick meat sauce well.
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Leftover Bolognese sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
