Easy Bolognese Sauce Recipe: A Beginner's Guide to Italian Comfort Food
This easy Bolognese sauce recipe is perfect for beginner cooks looking to master this classic Italian dish. Forget complicated techniques and long cooking times; this recipe prioritizes simplicity and delivers rich, flavourful results every time. It's a perfect weeknight meal that's sure to impress your family and friends.
What Makes This Bolognese Recipe Easy?
This recipe streamlines the traditional Bolognese process without sacrificing flavour. We've simplified the steps, minimized ingredients, and focused on building layers of deliciousness using readily available pantry staples. No special culinary skills are required, making it accessible to everyone.
Key Features of This Easy Recipe:
- Minimal Ingredients: We use common ingredients easily found in most supermarkets.
- Quick Cooking Time: This recipe cuts down on the lengthy simmering often associated with traditional Bolognese.
- Simple Steps: The instructions are straightforward and easy to follow, even for beginners.
- Big on Flavor: Despite its simplicity, this recipe delivers a rich and satisfying flavour profile.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped (mirepoix)
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Cooked pasta (such as spaghetti, tagliatelle, or rigatoni)
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Bolognese Bliss
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This process, known as soffritto, builds the flavour base of your sauce.
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Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for a deeper, richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes! Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Remove the Bay Leaf: Before serving, remove the bay leaf. This prevents a bitter taste.
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Serve: Serve the Bolognese sauce over your favorite pasta, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Best Easy Bolognese Sauce:
- Use good quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the sauce will taste.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a splash of red wine for added depth of flavour.
- Make it ahead: Bolognese sauce tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner the following day.
- Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad is the perfect complement to a hearty Bolognese.
This easy Bolognese recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal without the fuss. Enjoy!
