Homemade Bolognese Sauce Recipe

Name: Homemade Bolognese Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1/2 lb pork sausage; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 medium carrot, grated; 1 stalk celery, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano); 1/2 cup red wine; 1/2 cup milk or cream; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Published: June 10, 2025

by Hailey parker

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Opt for lean beef for balanced flavor without excess grease.
Pork Sausage: Adds richness; choose sweet or spicy based on your preference. sweet air fryer blueberry hand pies.
Onion: A finely chopped onion creates a sweet base as it caramelizes.
Carrots: Grated or diced carrots bring natural sweetness and color to the sauce.
Celery: Chopped celery adds depth and crunch, don’t skip it!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for that aromatic kick.
Canned Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for smooth texture; San Marzano is my favorite brand.
Red Wine: A splash of red wine enhances the sauce’s richness, choose one you’d enjoy drinking.
Milk or Cream: A secret ingredient that rounds out the acidity from the tomatoes beautifully.
Italian Herbs: Dried oregano and basil provide classic Italian flavors, you can never have too much! flavorful basil pesto potato salad.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every flavor note in your sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant.

Add the Meat: Stir in lean ground beef and pork sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. You want no pink bits left, about 10 minutes should do.

Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Mix in minced garlic followed by crushed canned tomatoes. Allow those glorious flavors to combine while reducing heat to low. Your kitchen should smell heavenly now!

Pour in the Wine: Add red wine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until reduced slightly. This step will deepen your sauce’s flavor profile significantly.

Add Milk and Herbs: Pour in milk or cream along with dried herbs. Simmer gently on low heat for at least 30 minutes (or longer if you have time) to let all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Season to Taste: Finally, taste your sauce! Adjust salt and pepper accordingly to make those flavors pop even more. delicious BLT pasta salad Serve hot over your favorite pasta or use it for lasagna! For more inspiration, check out this Grilled Corn Avocado Pasta Salad recipe.

And there you have it, a perfect batch of Homemade Bolognese Sauce that warms hearts as well as bellies! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Homemade Bolognese Sauce is a classic Italian dish that’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor. Using fresh ingredients elevates the taste, making it a family favorite. The delightful aroma fills your kitchen, promising a warm and comforting meal for everyone. [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic before adding ground meat. This builds flavor, then stir in tomatoes and herbs for a sauce that simmers beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap beef for turkey or add mushrooms for extra depth. A splash of red wine can enhance the sauce’s richness. For more inspiration, check out this Slow Cooker Beef Stew recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat for best results.

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use high-quality tomatoes for a more vibrant flavor. Simmer longer to develop deeper flavors, and don’t skimp on seasoning, taste as you go! Always let your sauce rest before serving; it allows flavors to meld beautifully. [/info_box]

Cooking this sauce always reminds me of cozy family dinners filled with laughter. My grandma would say, “The secret ingredient is love,” which made every bite unforgettable.

FAQ

What makes homemade Bolognese sauce different from store-bought?

Homemade Bolognese sauce uses fresh ingredients and allows for personalized flavors.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after resting for a day in the fridge.

Is there a vegetarian version of Bolognese sauce?

Yes! Substitute meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.

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