What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade Bolognese recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. You’ll love how simple it is to make, even on busy weeknights. It’s packed with rich, savory flavors that deepen as it simmers, making every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s super versatile—toss it with pasta, layer it in lasagna, or enjoy it on its own. Best of all, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Recipe
Bolognese is a classic Italian meat sauce known for its rich, hearty flavor. This homemade version stays true to traditional methods, simmering slowly to develop deep, savory notes.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 lb pancetta, diced
- 1/2 cup dry red wine
- 2 cups tomato passata or crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup beef or chicken stock
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 8 minutes.
- Add pancetta and cook until slightly browned. Stir in ground meat, breaking it apart, until fully browned.
- Pour in red wine and simmer until mostly evaporated.
- Add tomato passata, milk, stock, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of ground beef and pork.
- The sauce thickens as it simmers; add more stock if needed.
Equipment:
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 3 hours
Cuisine: Italian
Serving: 4–6
Nutrition
This homemade Bolognese recipe is packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 24g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 680mg |
What To Serve With It
When I make Bolognese, I love pairing it with fresh tagliatelle or pappardelle—their wide, flat noodles hold the sauce perfectly. If I’m craving something extra, I’ll serve it with crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad for a revitalizing contrast. Don’t forget a sprinkle of Parmesan on top—it’s the finishing touch that ties everything together!
Pasta Pairings
If you’re wondering which pasta works best with Bolognese, you’re in for a treat—there’s no wrong answer! I love tagliatelle because its wide, flat shape clings to the rich sauce, but pappardelle’s even thicker ribbons are just as delicious. For a classic choice, spaghetti or fettuccine never disappoint. If you’re feeling adventurous, rigatoni’s ridges trap every bite of meaty goodness. Even penne works in a pinch! The key is picking a pasta that holds up to the hearty sauce. Trust me, once you’ve tried a few, you’ll find your favorite—mine changes depending on the day!
Bread Options
There’s nothing like a warm slice of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of Bolognese, and I’ve got a few favorites that’ll make your meal even better. A classic ciabatta, with its chewy inside and crisp crust, is perfect for scooping up sauce. Garlic bread adds a punch of flavor, while a simple baguette keeps things light. For something heartier, try focaccia—its olive oil richness pairs beautifully. And if you’re feeling fancy, homemade sourdough brings a tangy twist. Trust me, any of these will turn your Bolognese into a meal you won’t forget.
