Slow-Simmered Beef Bolognese
Slow-simmered beef bolognese is the perfect hearty and comforting Italian dinner recipe. This rich, flavorful sauce develops incredible depth over time, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes work well too.
- Tomato Paste: Adds concentrated tomato flavor.
- Aromatics (Onion, Carrots, Celery): Essential for the flavor base.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Cooked pasta, for serving
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Tools Needed: Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in your large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is fully browned. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the browned beef. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Build the Sauce Base
Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to deepen the flavor of the tomato paste. This step is crucial for a rich Italian dinner recipe.
4. Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and milk. Stir everything together until well combined. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Finish and Serve
After simmering, the sauce will be thick and rich. Stir in the fresh basil and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve your slow-simmered beef bolognese over your favorite cooked pasta and top with plenty of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a delightful Italian dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for an authentic Bolognese touch.
- Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added greens.
- Serve over polenta or creamy mashed potatoes instead of pasta.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover slow-simmered beef bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick, until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I make this bolognese ahead of time?
A: Yes, bolognese often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Q: Why do you add milk to bolognese?
A: Milk helps to tenderize the meat and adds a creamy richness to the sauce, creating a smoother texture.
Q: Can I use different ground meat?
A: While beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey or a mix of ground beef and turkey.
Q: What kind of pasta is best for bolognese?
A: Wide, flat pasta like tagliatelle or pappardelle, or tubular shapes like rigatoni, are excellent choices as they hold the hearty sauce well.
Q: How do I know when the bolognese is done simmering?
A: The sauce will have thickened considerably, and the flavors will be rich and well-developed. The beef should be very tender.
Q: Is this a difficult Italian dinner recipe to make?
A: No, it’s quite simple! While it requires patience for the long simmer, the steps themselves are very straightforward and beginner-friendly.
