Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this classic homemade bolognese sauce! It’s the kind of dish that wraps around you like a warm hug on a chilly day. The rich, savory flavor from the slow-cooked meat and tomatoes is just divine! I remember the first time I made this recipe—it filled my kitchen with an aroma that had everyone wandering in, asking what was cooking. It’s become my go-to sauce for all pasta dishes, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want it on your table all the time!
Ingredients for Classic Homemade Bolognese Sauce
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this sauce sing! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup whole milk
Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking. It’ll make the entire process smoother and more enjoyable! Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Classic Homemade Bolognese Sauce
Now, let’s dive into making this delicious sauce! I promise, it’s easier than you might think. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a bubbling pot of goodness in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle but not smoking! Add the finely chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, or until everything is soft and fragrant. This trio is the foundation of flavor, so don’t rush it!
Step 2: Cook the Meat
Next up, it’s time to add the ground beef and pork. Crumble the meat into the skillet and cook until it’s nicely browned, around 8-10 minutes. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. You want those beautiful bits to caramelize for extra flavor!
Step 3: Add Wine and Simmer
Once the meat is browned, pour in the red wine. This adds such depth to the sauce! Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce. You want to cook off that alcohol—what’s left will enhance the sauce’s richness. After that, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Long Simmer for Flavor
Now comes the magic part! Lower the heat and let the sauce gently simmer uncovered for 1.5 hours. This slow cooking is where all the flavors meld together beautifully, so don’t skip it! Just give it a stir every now and then to keep things even.
Step 5: Finish with Milk
Finally, stir in the whole milk and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes. This is the secret to a creamy texture that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. You’ll be amazed at how rich and comforting this sauce becomes!
Tips for Success with Classic Homemade Bolognese Sauce
To make your classic homemade bolognese sauce truly shine, here are some of my tried-and-true tips! First, don’t skimp on the quality of your ingredients—fresh vegetables and good-quality meat make all the difference. If you can, use grass-fed beef and organic tomatoes; trust me, you’ll taste the love!
Also, take your time with the sautéing—this step builds the flavor base, so let those veggies get soft and fragrant. When you add the wine, make sure to let it reduce fully; this concentrates the flavors. And remember, the longer you let it simmer, the better it gets! Don’t be afraid to taste as you go; adjusting the seasoning is key to achieving that perfect balance. Lastly, be patient when adding the milk—it’s the finishing touch that makes this sauce velvety and rich. Enjoy the process, and your sauce will be a hit every time!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a heads up! Nutritional information for this classic homemade bolognese sauce can vary quite a bit based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I’ve provided some general nutritional values, keep in mind that these are not exact. If you’re tracking your intake, it’s always a good idea to check the labels on your ingredients. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and remember that every bite is a delicious one, regardless of the numbers!
FAQ About Classic Homemade Bolognese Sauce
Got questions about making this classic homemade bolognese sauce? No worries, I’ve got you covered!
How long can I store bolognese sauce in the fridge?
It can last up to 5 days in an airtight container. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before storing!
Can I substitute the ground pork?
Absolutely! You can use all beef or even ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
What’s the best way to freeze bolognese sauce?
Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes! It actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.
How do I know when my sauce is done?
The sauce should be thick and rich, with a deep flavor. A good simmer of at least 1.5 hours is key to achieving that perfect taste!
Why You’ll Love This Classic Homemade Bolognese Sauce
- Rich, comforting flavor that feels like a warm embrace
- Simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
- Versatile—pair it with any pasta or use it in lasagna
- Can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day
- Freezes beautifully, making meal prep a breeze
- Impressive enough to serve to guests but easy enough for beginners
Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a staple in my kitchen!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your classic homemade bolognese sauce is super easy! Once it’s completely cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge, where it’ll keep for up to 5 days. If you want to save some for later, it freezes beautifully! Just scoop it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion, and it can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Enjoy every last bite!
Serving Suggestions for Classic Homemade Bolognese Sauce
When it comes to serving your classic homemade bolognese sauce, the possibilities are endless! My favorite way is to pair it with al dente spaghetti or tagliatelle—just toss the pasta in the sauce, and you’re good to go! For a heartier meal, try layering it in a lasagna with creamy béchamel sauce and mozzarella. You can also serve it over polenta for a cozy twist. Don’t forget a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top for that extra touch of indulgence! A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad rounds out the meal beautifully. Enjoy!
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Classic Homemade Bolognese Sauce: 5 Steps to Comforting Bliss
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Classic homemade bolognese sauce made with ground meat and tomatoes.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground beef and pork. Cook until browned.
- Pour in red wine and let it reduce for 5 minutes.
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer on low heat for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in milk and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Notes
- Serve with pasta of your choice.
- Can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezes well for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: bolognese sauce, homemade sauce, Italian sauce
