Learn how to make a rich and flavorful classic Bolognese sauce that is perfect for cozy dinners. This easy recipe combines tender ground beef, aromatic veggies, and slow-simmered tomatoes for a delicious homemade pasta sauce.
Author:sarah_hearthbite
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:105 min
Total Time:120 min
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Stovetop Simmering
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry red wine
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 pound spaghetti or preferred pasta
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off excess fat.
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the red wine and let it simmer until it mostly evaporates, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, milk, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let the sauce simmer slowly for at least 1.5 hours, or up to 3 hours for deeper flavor. Stir occasionally.
About 15 minutes before serving, cook your spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and toss it with a generous amount of the rich savory sauce. Serve immediately for a family favorite dinner.
Notes
For a deeper flavor, use a mix of ground beef and ground pork or veal.
This hearty beef sauce freezes well; cool completely before storing in airtight containers.
Serve this authentic Italian meat sauce over pasta or use it as a lasagna sauce recipe.