Best Bolognese Sauce Recipe (Rich and Flavorful Meat Sauce)

Discover the Ultimate Bolognese Sauce Recipe – a rich and hearty meat sauce that’s perfect for any pasta lover. Made with Italian sausage, ground beef, pancetta, and a medley of fresh ingredients, this sauce offers layers of bold flavor. Slow-simmered for maximum depth, it pairs perfectly with spaghetti, tagliatelle, or gnocchi. Whether you’re prepping a cozy family dinner or a meal for guests, this versatile sauce is sure to impress. Easily customizable with variations like dairy-free or vegetarian options, it’s ideal for meal prep and freezer-friendly storage. Elevate your Italian cooking with this classic, comforting dish today!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons (28ml) olive oil
• 5 ounces pancetta, diced
• 1 pound (227g) sweet Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1 pound (227g) ground beef
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 medium carrot, finely diced
• 4 tablespoons (56g) tomato paste
• 1 cup (227ml) white or red wine
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes with basil
• 1 cup (227ml) beef stock
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup (113ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, tagliatelle, ravioli, or gnocchi)

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Instructions

1. Cook Pancetta:
   Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 5 to 6 minutes.
2. Brown the Meats:
   Add the Italian sausage and ground beef to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces. Cook until browned and no pink remains, approximately 5 minutes.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
   Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the onion and carrot, then cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and turns translucent.
4. Incorporate Tomato Paste:
   Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen its flavor.
5. Deglaze with Wine:
   Pour in the wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
6. Add Tomatoes and Stock:
   Stir in the crushed tomatoes and 1/2 cup of the beef stock. Mix well and bring the sauce to a boil.
7. Simmer for Flavor:
   Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the sauce for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Gradually add the remaining beef stock as the sauce thickens, ensuring a rich consistency.
8. Season and Finish:
   Stir in the sugar and chopped basil, then simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste (start with 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper).
9. Add Cream and Nutmeg:
   Reduce the heat to low. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent curdling. Whisk in the ground nutmeg for a subtle warmth.
10. Let Rest:
    Remove the sauce from heat and let it stand for 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Serve over your favorite pasta, ravioli, or gnocchi.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: Rich, slow-simmered sauce with layers of savory depth.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Freezes beautifully, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Versatile: Complements pasta, ravioli, gnocchi, and even zucchini noodles.
• Comfort Food Classic: Ideal for cozy family meals or special occasions.

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Tips

• For a smoother sauce, finely dice the vegetables or pulse them in a food processor.
• Use fresh basil for the best flavor, but dried basil can work in a pinch.
• Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking or burning.
• For a richer flavor, opt for red wine over white.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency if needed.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Options: Substitute sausage with ground pork or turkey for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian: Replace meat with finely diced mushrooms or plant-based ground meat.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or almond milk in place of heavy cream.
• Spicier Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot Italian sausage.

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FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, Bolognese sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze Bolognese sauce?
Absolutely! Freeze in portioned airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Do I have to use wine?
Wine adds depth to the sauce, but you can substitute it with extra beef stock if needed.

What type of pasta pairs best with Bolognese sauce?
Tagliatelle or pappardelle are traditional choices, but spaghetti or penne also work wonderfully.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy garlic bread for a complete Italian feast.
• Add Fresh Parmesan: Top with grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for added richness.
• Salad on the Side: A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette complements the hearty sauce.
• Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of Chianti or Sangiovese for an authentic experience.

Enjoy this classic Italian Bolognese sauce with your favorite pasta for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal!