Looking for a quick yet tasty dinner option? My Simple Weeknight Bolognese is just what you need! This recipe brings together ground beef, fresh veggies, and rich tomatoes for a comforting sauce. In just a few easy steps, you’ll have a meal that feels special but cooks in a flash. Perfect for busy evenings, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This Bolognese sauce is rich and hearty, perfect for cozy family dinners.
- Easy to Make:
- Versatile Dish: Pair it with any pasta of your choice or use it as a filling for lasagna or baked ziti.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This sauce keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh basil leaves
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Suggested side accompaniments: crusty bread or a side salad
Gathering these ingredients helps you create a rich and tasty Bolognese. You can easily find them at your local grocery store. Fresh vegetables like onion, carrot, and celery add great flavor. The ground beef gives it a hearty texture.
Canned tomatoes and tomato paste add depth to the sauce. Don’t forget the dried herbs! Oregano and basil bring the dish to life. Olive oil helps cook the vegetables and beef. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors.
For a special touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. A side of crusty bread or a salad pairs perfectly. Enjoy making this dish with these simple ingredients!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Base
1. Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 1 finely chopped onion, 1 diced carrot, and 1 diced celery stalk. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and the onion is clear.
3. Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 1-2 minutes until you smell the garlic.
4. Increase the heat to medium-high. Add 1 pound of ground beef. Cook until it is brown all over, about 5-7 minutes. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Making the Sauce
1. Stir in 14 ounces of crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
2. Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and mix well. Bring this mix to a gentle simmer.
3. Lower the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 30 minutes. Stir it now and then. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Preparing the Pasta
1. While the sauce simmers, cook 3 cups of pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Once the sauce is ready, combine it with the cooked pasta in the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta with the sauce.
Tips & Tricks
Speeding Up Cooking Time
- Prepping ingredients in advance: Chop your veggies and measure your spices ahead. Store them in the fridge. This saves time when you start cooking.
- Using pre-cooked pasta: You can buy pre-cooked pasta to save cooking time. Just heat it up in the sauce. This makes dinner even faster!
Flavor Enhancement Techniques
- Additional herbs and spices: Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick. These small touches make a big difference.
- Suggestions for cooking liquids: Use red wine or extra beef broth. These liquids add depth to the sauce. They make the flavors richer and more complex.
Presentation Suggestions
- Serving ideas for enhanced appeal: Serve the Bolognese in deep bowls. This allows for a nice layer of sauce over the pasta. Top it with a sprinkle of cheese and basil for color.
- Plating options for entertaining: If you host a dinner, serve it family-style. Place the pasta and sauce on the table for guests to help themselves. Add a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Use Quality Meat: Choose ground beef with a higher fat content (around 80/20) for a richer flavor and texture.
- Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh oregano and basil instead of dried for a brighter, more aromatic sauce.
- Let it Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer longer for deeper flavor development; an hour is ideal if time permits.
- Pasta Cooking Tip: Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; add it to the sauce if it needs thinning for better consistency.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can swap out the ground beef for other meats. Ground turkey offers a lighter taste. You can also use sausage for a richer flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, lentils work great. They add protein and texture while keeping the dish hearty.
Sauce Customization
Feel free to add more veggies to your sauce. Chopped bell peppers or zucchini boost nutrition. You can also sneak in spinach for added greens. Want some heat? Toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to adjust the spice level.
Pasta Alternatives
If you need gluten-free options, use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. They will still hold the sauce well. You can also try different pasta shapes like fusilli or penne. Each shape adds a fun twist to your meal and catches the sauce in its folds.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Bolognese fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Use an airtight container. It stays good for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Portion the sauce into smaller containers. This makes it easy to thaw just what you need later. Bolognese sauce can last in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Methods
When reheating, aim for low heat to keep the flavor. You can use a saucepan or microwave. If using a saucepan, add a splash of water or broth. This keeps the sauce moist. Stir often to avoid burning. If using a microwave, cover the bowl to trap steam. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the Bolognese sauce a day in advance. Just let it cool before storing. This saves time on busy nights. Cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to eat. For even more time-saving, consider making a big batch. You can freeze half for another weeknight meal.
FAQs
Can I make Bolognese sauce without beef?
Yes, you can make Bolognese sauce without beef. Here are some tasty substitutes:
- Ground turkey: It offers a light flavor and works well in sauces.
- Lentils: Use cooked lentils for a hearty, plant-based option.
- Mushrooms: Finely chop mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat.
- Textured vegetable protein (TVP): This is a great meat alternative that absorbs flavors well.
Each option brings its own unique taste. Feel free to mix and match!
How long can I store Bolognese sauce?
Bolognese sauce can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your container with the date.
When reheating, ensure the sauce reaches a temperature of 165°F to keep it safe.
What is the best pasta to use with Bolognese sauce?
The best pasta for Bolognese sauce is one that can hold the sauce well. Here are my top recommendations:
- Spaghetti: Classic choice, great for twirling with sauce.
- Fettuccine: Its flat shape catches the sauce nicely.
- Penne: The tube shape allows sauce to fill each piece.
Choose any of these, and enjoy the flavors of your Bolognese sauce!
This post shared how to make a delicious Bolognese sauce. We covered key ingredients like ground beef, fresh veggies, and spices. I gave you steps to cook the sauce and pasta together perfectly. You also got tips for speeding up cooking and ideas for fun variations.
Remember, experiment with ingredients to find what you love. Enjoy your cooking journey and create tasty meals with eas
Bountiful Bolognese Delight
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 1 stalk celery, finely diced
- 14 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 3 cups cooked pasta (spaghetti or any kind you prefer)
- as needed fresh basil leaves for garnish
- as needed grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until it is browned all over, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and beef broth. Mix well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Once the Bolognese sauce is ready, combine it with the cooked pasta in the skillet, gently tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
