Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe

There is something truly magical about the Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe that makes it a beloved staple in kitchens around the world. This hearty, rich sauce combines ground beef and pork with a medley of fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a splash of red wine, resulting in a comforting meal that feels like a warm embrace on a plate. Whether you’re simmering it slowly on a weekend or whipping it up for a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe brings authentic Italian flavors right to your table with ease and satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building a sauce that is deep in flavor and perfect in texture. From the sweetness of the carrot and celery to the richness of the meats and the brightness of fresh basil, these essentials create a harmonious taste experience.

• Olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing, it adds a fruity, smooth richness without overpowering the other flavors.
• Onion, finely chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and savory foundation for the sauce.
• Garlic, minced: Adds an aromatic punch that wakes up the palate.
• Carrot, grated: Brings natural sweetness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Celery stalk, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, slightly bitter note and a bit of crunch.
• Ground beef: Offers heartiness and a rich meaty flavor essential for authentic Bolognese.
• Ground pork: Adds extra depth and a silky texture when combined with beef.
• Red wine: Enhances complexity with subtle fruity and tannic notes that marry beautifully with the meat.
• Crushed tomatoes: Provide the vibrant, tangy base that defines the sauce’s character.
• Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
• Beef or chicken broth: Keeps the sauce juicy and adds subtle savory undertones.
• Fresh basil, chopped: Lifts the sauce with herby freshness and a touch of sweetness.
• Dried oregano: Introduces a warm, earthy aroma that is classic in Italian cooking.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the entire dish.
• Pasta (tagliatelle or spaghetti): The perfect hearty vessel to soak up all that luscious sauce.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that ties everything together at the table.

How to Make Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat — this creates the flavor base. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic and cook them gently until the onion turns translucent, releasing their wonderful sweet and pungent aromas that set the stage for the rest of the sauce.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Next, toss in the grated carrot and chopped celery. These vegetables soften and mellow as they sauté, adding a subtle sweetness and texture that perfectly balance the richness of the meat to come.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Turn the heat to high and add both ground beef and ground pork to the pan. It’s important to break up the meat with a wooden spoon so it browns evenly and develops a deep, savory flavor. This caramelization is what gives the Bolognese its irresistibly meaty depth.

Step 4: Deglaze and Add Tomatoes

Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those tasty browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce for about three minutes, then stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, blending everything into a gorgeous, rich base for the sauce.

Step 5: Simmer with Broth and Herbs

Add the broth, chopped fresh basil, and dried oregano next. Bring the mixture to a slow simmer. These liquids and herbs work together to infuse the sauce with that classic Italian soul while keeping it moist and flavorful.

Step 6: Let the Sauce Slowly Cook

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the sauce cook gently for 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer thickens the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the meat to tenderize perfectly.

Step 7: Final Seasoning

Season your sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This last step ensures every bite is perfectly balanced and flavorful.

Step 8: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, saving a little pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 9: Combine and Serve

Plate the pasta and generously spoon the heavenly sauce over it. Don’t forget to sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top—it’s the crowning glory that makes this Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe truly memorable.

How to Serve Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese is classic for a reason—it adds richness and a slightly salty finish that elevates every forkful. For a fresh burst, you can also add torn basil leaves or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, consider serving a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or crusty garlic bread to mop up all the delicious sauce. Roasted seasonal vegetables also make a lovely accompaniment, adding color and additional textures to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or turn dinner into a special occasion, try layering the Bolognese sauce in a baked pasta casserole, topped with mozzarella for a bubbling, golden crust. Alternatively, serve the sauce over creamy polenta for a delightful twist on the classic presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover sauce keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead option for quick weeknight meals.

Freezing

This Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion the sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw it slowly overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much. Stir frequently to prevent scorching. Reheat the pasta separately or toss it briefly in the sauce to bring everything back to life.

FAQs

Can I use only one type of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the blend of ground beef and pork gives a nice balance of flavor and texture, using just ground beef or pork alone will still produce a delicious Bolognese. The slow cooking time helps develop great flavor irrespective of meat choice.

Is red wine necessary for the Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe?

Red wine adds an extra depth and complexity to the sauce, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with additional broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for some acidity and richness.

What pasta type pairs best with Bolognese sauce?

Traditional Italian cooking favors tagliatelle, a broad and flat noodle that holds onto the thick sauce beautifully. Spaghetti or pappardelle are also great choices if you want a more common pasta to soak up all that flavor.

Can I make this sauce vegetarian?

This recipe is traditionally meaty, but for a vegetarian twist, you could swap the meat for finely chopped mushrooms or a mix of lentils to replicate the texture and keep it hearty.

How thick should the sauce be at the end?

The sauce should be thick enough to cling to the pasta without being too watery. After simmering for up to an hour, the liquids reduce, and the sauce becomes rich and concentrated—perfect for coating each strand of pasta.

Final Thoughts

If you have never tried making this Classic Italian Pasta Bolognese Recipe at home, I urge you to put on your apron and dive in. The process is incredibly rewarding, and the resulting dish is a celebration of rich, authentic Italian flavors that bring comfort and satisfaction to any table. Trust me, this is one recipe you will want to make again and again.

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