Rich, hearty, and full of comforting flavor, this Classic Beef Bolognese is a timeless Italian-inspired dish perfect for cozy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
With tender ground beef, aromatic vegetables, crushed tomatoes, and a splash of red wine, this sauce simmers low and slow to build bold, deep flavor.
Served over a bed of your favorite pasta and topped with fresh herbs and Parmesan, it’s a meal that warms the soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hearty and comforting: A classic meat sauce that’s satisfying and full of flavor.
Perfect for make-ahead: Even better the next day and freezer-friendly.
Simple ingredients: Pantry staples turn into a luxurious sauce.
Ingredient Highlights (no measurements)
Ground beef for a rich, meaty base.
Onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to build flavor and depth.
Crushed tomatoes and tomato paste for the perfect saucy texture.
Herbs like oregano and basil for Italian flair.
Red wine and milk to balance the acidity and create a silky finish.
Pasta of your choice to serve it all over.
Fresh basil or parsley and Parmesan for garnish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use a mix of onion, carrot, and celery (called soffritto) to build a proper Italian base.
Let the sauce simmer at least 30 minutes; longer = better flavor.
Add milk near the end to mellow the acidity and create a velvety texture.
Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
How to Make Classic Beef Bolognese with Pasta
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion, carrot, and celery.
Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add garlic and ground beef to the skillet.
Cook, breaking the beef apart with a spoon, until fully browned.
Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried herbs, salt, pepper, and red wine if using.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Step 4: Let It Cook Low & Slow
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently, stirring occasionally.
Allow it to cook for 30–60 minutes for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Add Milk for Creaminess
Near the end of cooking, stir in the milk.
Let it simmer a few more minutes to mellow and enrich the sauce.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, boil the pasta in salted water according to the package directions.
Drain well once cooked.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Plate the pasta and top generously with the Bolognese sauce.
Garnish with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan, if desired.
What to Serve It With
A crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread
A glass of red wine like Chianti or Cabernet
Roasted vegetables for a balanced plate
Variations & Substitutions
Swap beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage.
Use crushed San Marzano tomatoes for a sweeter, richer base.
Make it dairy-free by skipping the milk.
Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze the sauce (without pasta) up to 3 months.
Reheat: Gently warm in a saucepan with a splash of water or broth.
FAQs
Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed?
Yes, but you may want to blend them slightly or simmer longer for a smoother sauce.
How do I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when simmering.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté veggies first, then transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
What pasta shape works best?
Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are all great. Short pasta like rigatoni works too.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—this sauce freezes beautifully, so make a big batch!
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can I skip the wine?
Yes, just replace it with more broth or a bit of water.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Beef Bolognese is one of those timeless recipes I never get tired of making.
It fills the house with the coziest aromas and brings everyone to the table with smiles.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself, it’s a dish that comforts and satisfies every time.
Classic Beef Bolognese
Ingredients
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium carrot finely diced
- 1 medium celery stalk finely diced
- 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup red wine optional
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound spaghetti or your choice of pasta
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish optional
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving optional
Instructions
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Add garlic and ground beef.
- Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red wine.
- Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://p4pd.org/classic-beef-bolognese/
Notes
- Dice the vegetables finely for a smooth, classic texture.
- Red wine adds depth, but can be omitted or swapped for beef broth.
- Let the sauce simmer uncovered to thicken naturally.
- Use whole milk to keep the balance of richness and acidity.
