Authentic Bolognese Sauce
A rich and hearty Italian meat-based sauce perfect for pasta dishes.
Servings: 6 servings
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound Ground Beef Use 80/20 for flavor and richness.
- 1 pound Ground Veal Adds tenderness and subtle flavor.
Vegetables
- 1 medium Carrot Finely chopped for sweetness.
- 1 stalk Celery Chopped for aromatic base.
- 1 medium Onion Finely diced for savory foundation.
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced for fragrance.
Tomato Products
- 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes High-quality canned for rich flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Concentrates tomato flavor.
Liquids
- 1 cup Beef Broth Enriches the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Extra virgin preferred for sautéing.
Seasonings
- to taste Salt Enhances flavor.
- to taste Black Pepper Adds heat and complexity.
- 2 Bay Leaves Imparts aromatic quality.
- optional Fresh Basil Chopped for freshness before serving.
For Serving
- to taste Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated for topping.
Instructions
- Finely chop the onion, carrot, and celery to create the soffritto base.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and ground veal, breaking it up as it cooks. Brown the meat for 8-10 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes to enhance its flavor.
- Add crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. Cover partially and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and remove bay leaves before serving.
- Serve over pasta and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For best flavor, let the sauce simmer longer. Store leftovers in an airtight container.