Print

Authentic Slow-Simmered Beef Bolognese Sauce

A close-up of spaghetti topped generously with rich, dark Bolognese sauce on a white plate.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make a rich, savory, classic Italian beef Bolognese sauce. This recipe is hearty and perfect for serving over pasta or using in lasagna.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrot, finely chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, 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
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the red wine and let it simmer until it reduces by half, about 3 minutes.
  5. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, milk, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let it cook slowly for at least 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving over your favorite pasta.

Notes

  • For a deeper flavor, substitute half the ground beef with ground pork or veal.
  • If you have time, simmer the sauce for up to 3 hours for maximum flavor development.
  • This sauce freezes well for future meals.

Nutrition