Description
This hearty and rich classic Bolognese sauce is packed with tender lean beef, sweet carrots, aromatic onions, and slow-simmered tomatoes. Perfect over your favorite pasta, this authentic Italian meat sauce is comforting, flavorful, and easy to make from scratch.
Ingredients
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9 oz (250 g) lean beef mince
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1 cup grated carrot
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 celery stalk, finely chopped
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1 cup canned crushed tomatoes (or passata)
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
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1/2 cup beef broth or water
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
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Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
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Prepare the Base:
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. -
Brown the Beef:
Add the lean beef mince to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. -
Add Carrots and Tomato Paste:
Stir in grated carrot and tomato paste. Cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor. -
Deglaze with Wine:
Pour in the red wine (if using), scraping the pan to loosen browned bits. Cook for 3-4 minutes until wine reduces slightly. -
Add Tomatoes and Simmer:
Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, and basil. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper. -
Slow Simmer:
Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for at least 30 minutes (up to 1.5 hours for deeper flavor), stirring occasionally.
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Serve:
Garnish with fresh herbs and serve over cooked pasta with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a richer sauce, add a splash of whole milk or cream towards the end of cooking.
This sauce freezes well and tastes even better the next day.
Use lean beef mince to keep the sauce light but flavorful.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: bolognese sauce, italian meat sauce, pasta sauce, classic bolognese, homemade bolognese