Name: Classic Italian Bolognese Sauce
Prep time: 00:30:00
Cook time: 02:30:00
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground beef; 1/4 pound pancetta; 1 whole yellow onion; 2 whole carrots; 2 whole celery stalks; 4 whole garlic cloves; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup dry white wine; 1 cup whole milk; 28 ounces crushed tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 2 whole bay leaves; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Classic Italian Bolognese Sauce

ItalianBeefPastaStovetopDinnerWeeknightWeekend

This authentic Italian Bolognese sauce is a rich, hearty meat sauce that's slowly simmered to develop deep, complex flavors. Perfect for serving over pasta, this classic recipe stays true to traditional techniques while remaining approachable for home cooks. The key to success lies in patient cooking and quality ingredients.

Prep Time

30 min

Cook Time

2 hrs 30 min

Serves

6 servings

Difficulty

medium

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Ingredients

Equipment Needed

Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot
Wooden spoon
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Grater for nutmeg

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Classic Italian Bolognese Sauce

Recipe Assistant

Ingredients

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

Step 1: A heavy-bottomed pot helps prevent scorching and ensures even heat distribution.

Step 2: The soffritto is the aromatic base that gives the sauce its foundation of flavor.

Step 3

Step 4: Don't overcrowd the pot - you want the meat to brown, not steam.

Step 5

Step 6: This step, called deglazing, adds depth to the sauce's flavor.

Step 7: The milk helps tenderize the meat and adds richness to the sauce.

Step 8

Step 9: Slow cooking is crucial for developing the sauce's rich flavor and tender texture.

Step 10: The sauce should be rich and meaty with a balanced flavor.