Description
This rich, slow-simmered Bolognese sauce is the ultimate comfort food. Made with a blend of beef and pork, aromatic vegetables, creamy milk, and a touch of tomato, it creates a deeply flavorful sauce that clings to pasta perfectly. Ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in, this classic Italian staple only gets better the next day.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
1 medium carrot, peeled and finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 cup whole milk
1 cup beef broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 7–10 minutes until softened and golden.
2. Add minced garlic and stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef and pork. Break apart with a spoon and cook until browned, about 10 minutes. Drain some fat if needed.
4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes to intensify the flavor.
5. Pour in crushed tomatoes, milk, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
6. Add bay leaf and oregano. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
7. Discard bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Toss with pasta and serve hot with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Simmer uncovered to allow the sauce to naturally thicken and concentrate in flavor.
Use full-fat milk for the best richness and texture.
This sauce tastes even better the next day—perfect for make-ahead meals.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup sauce
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Bolognese, meat sauce, pasta sauce