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Italian Beef Bolognese – A Rich & Hearty Homemade Classic

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A hearty and traditional Italian beef Bolognese sauce made with ground beef, vegetables, tomato, wine, and milk. Perfect for pasta nights and cozy family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

  • 1 small onion, finely diced

  • 1 carrot, finely diced

  • 1 celery stalk, finely diced

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20)

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 1 cup dry red wine

  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

  • 1 cup whole milk

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1 sprig thyme

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  • In a large pot, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.

  • Add onion, carrot, and celery; cook 8–10 minutes until soft.

  • Add garlic and stir 1 minute more.

  • Add beef, season with salt and pepper, and brown until no pink remains.

  • Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2–3 minutes.

  • Deglaze with wine and reduce by half.

  • Add crushed tomatoes, bay leaf, and thyme. Simmer on low for 1.5–2 hours.

  • Stir in milk during the last 15 minutes.

  • Remove herbs, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Serve with tagliatelle, pappardelle, or polenta.

  • Store in fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.

  • For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender briefly.