Description
This Classic Homemade Bolognese Sauce is rich, hearty, and simmered to perfection with layers of deep flavor. Made with ground beef and pork, a soffritto of aromatic vegetables, red wine, tomatoes, and a splash of cream, it’s the perfect sauce for pasta, lasagna, or freezing for later. A true Italian comfort food favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 large carrot, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- ½ pound ground pork
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened and lightly caramelized, about 8–10 minutes.
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Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Add ground beef and ground pork. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned and no longer pink, about 8–10 minutes.
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Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes.
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Pour in red wine and deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the wine reduces slightly.
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Add crushed tomatoes and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
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Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain consistency.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, stir in milk or cream in the final 10 minutes of cooking.
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Remove bay leaf and serve over your favorite pasta, or use in lasagna or baked dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes