Homemade Bolognese Sauce Recipe
A classic Homemade Bolognese Sauce recipe featuring ground beef simmered with tomatoes, onion, and garlic to create a rich, hearty sauce perfect for pasta dishes or lasagna.
- Author: Dylan
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup beef broth (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- Prepare the ingredients: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves to ensure they blend smoothly into the sauce, infusing it with flavor.
- Brown the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and optional beef broth. Stir in salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil if using.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer develops the rich flavors and thickens the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot over your favorite pasta or use as a base for lasagna.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, use a mix of ground beef and pork.
- Adding a splash of red wine during simmering enhances richness.
- The sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen for convenience.
- Simmering longer (up to 2 hours) will yield an even thicker and more flavorful sauce.
- Use fresh herbs if available to elevate the dish.
Keywords: Bolognese, Italian sauce, ground beef sauce, pasta sauce, homemade Bolognese