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.
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
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.
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.