Easy Homemade Bolognese Sauce

Rich, comforting, and perfect for pasta night

Prep & Cook Time

 Yield & Calories

• Serves: 6

• Calories: ~300–350 kcal per serving (sauce only)

 Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Meats:

• 500 g (1 lb) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Liquids:

• ¾ cup (180 ml) dry red wine (optional but recommended)

• 1 ½ cups (375 ml) whole milk

• 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

Seasoning:

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 bay leaf

• A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

• Fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)

 Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

• Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 6–8 minutes until soft.

• Add garlic and cook another 1–2 minutes.

2. Brown the Meat

• Add ground beef (or beef/pork blend). Season with salt and pepper.

• Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon (about 8–10 minutes).

3. Deglaze with Wine

• Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pan.

• Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until the alcohol evaporates.

4. Add Tomatoes & Milk

• Stir in the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes.

• Add milk, oregano, bay leaf, and nutmeg. Mix well.

5. Simmer Low & Slow

• Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for at least 60–90 minutes, stirring occasionally.

• The sauce should thicken and develop rich flavor. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over spaghetti, tagliatelle, or pappardelle

• Top with grated Parmesan cheese

• Pair with garlic bread or a green salad

 Tips for the Best Bolognese

• Time = flavor: Simmering longer makes the sauce richer.

• Milk helps tenderize the meat and balance the acidity of tomatoes.

• Add a splash of pasta cooking water before serving for extra silkiness.

• For extra depth, add a small Parmesan rind to simmer with the sauce.

• Leftovers taste even better the next day!

 Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving, sauce only)

 Recipe Summary