Introduction
Transform humble pantry staples into a rich, comforting Bolognese sauce that’ll have everyone asking for seconds! This isn’t your average jarred sauce; this recipe is bursting with flavor, made from scratch with love, and perfect for cozy family dinners. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade Italian goodness!
Why This Works
This Bolognese sauce recipe works because it’s all about slow cooking and layering flavors. We start with a classic soffritto, building a deep base of flavor that the rich tomato sauce and tender meat beautifully complement. The result? A deeply satisfying, intensely flavorful sauce that’s perfect for pasta, lasagna, or even spooned over polenta. It’s simple, delicious, and incredibly rewarding to make!
Key Ingredients
🍅 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
🧅 1 large onion, finely chopped
🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
🥕 2 large carrots, finely chopped
🌿 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
🥩 1 pound ground beef
🥓 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage
🍷 1/2 cup dry red wine
🍃 1 teaspoon dried oregano
🍃 1 teaspoon dried basil
🌿 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
🧂 1 teaspoon salt
胡椒 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
🥣 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2️⃣ Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
3️⃣ Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
4️⃣ Pour in the red wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
5️⃣ Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6️⃣ Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 2 hours, or up to 4 hours for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavors become! Stir occasionally.
7️⃣ Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your preference.
Handy Tips
- Use good quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are a great option.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick!
- If you don’t have dry herbs, you can substitute with fresh herbs. Use about 2 tablespoons of fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs.
Heat Control
Low and slow is the key to this recipe! A low simmer allows the flavors to meld together beautifully without burning the sauce. High heat will cause the sauce to reduce too quickly and may result in a burnt taste. Patience is key!
Crunch Factor
This Bolognese focuses on a rich, smooth texture. For a little added crunch, consider serving it over pasta with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a deeper, richer flavor, sauté the vegetables in butter instead of olive oil.
- Add a splash of tomato paste along with the garlic for enhanced depth.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-minced garlic and pre-chopped vegetables.
Storage Tips
Leftover Bolognese sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully! Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This sauce makes a wonderful homemade gift! Package it in pretty jars with a festive ribbon and a handwritten recipe card.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Bolognese: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
🌟 Mushroom Bolognese: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms along with the vegetables.
🌟 Meatless Bolognese: Substitute the ground beef and sausage with 1 cup of lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
🌟 Creamy Bolognese: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Troubleshooting
- Sauce is too thin: Simmer uncovered for a longer period to reduce the sauce.
- Sauce is too thick: Add a little water or broth to thin it out.
- Sauce is burnt: Start again! Unfortunately, burnt sauce is difficult to salvage.
FAQ
- Can I use different types of ground meat? Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or a combination of meats.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Brown the meat and vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- How can I make it ahead of time? You can make this sauce up to 3 days in advance. It tastes even better the next day!
Conclusion
This Grandma’s Famous Bolognese Sauce is a true family favorite, perfect for cozy nights in and special occasions alike. We hope you enjoy making it as much as we do! Share your creations and tag us – we’d love to see your delicious Bolognese!