beef bolognese recipe
Beef bolognese is a classic Italian sauce that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a rich, hearty meal that’s perfect for any day.
Equipment
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 500 g ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 small carrots, finely diced
- 2 stalks celery, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 400 g crushed tomatoes (canned)
- 0.5 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 0.25 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- to taste salt and freshly ground pepper
- grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook gently for 5–7 minutes until softened but not browned.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes.
- Mix in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- In the last 10 minutes, stir in milk to soften acidity and enrich texture.
Notes
Use ground beef with some fat for better flavor. Avoid rushing the simmer to develop rich taste. Fresh herbs brighten the sauce.