Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the simmering pot, the rich aroma enveloped my kitchen like a warm embrace on a chilly evening. This Best Creamy Bolognese Sauce is not just a meal; it’s a cozy experience waiting to unfold. With a comforting blend of ground beef tenderly melded with aromatic vegetables and a splash of white wine, this sauce offers both depth and richness that will have you savoring each bite. Not only is it perfect for weeknight dinners, but it’s also a true crowd-pleaser for gatherings. Whether you serve it over pappardelle or tagliatelle, this Bolognese elevates any meal into an Italian feast. Are you ready to unveil the secrets behind this heartwarming classic? Let’s dive in! Why Is This Bolognese Sauce Irresistible? Emotional Comfort: This creamy Bolognese sauce is like a warm hug, perfect for chilly evenings. Flavor Fusion: The rich combination of beef, aromatic vegetables, and white wine creates an unforgettable depth of flavor. Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family gatherings, this sauce will impress guests and become a staple at your dinner table. Versatile Serving: Whether you’re pairing it with traditional pappardelle or trying a new pasta shape, this sauce adapts to your cravings. Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for meal prepping, this sauce can be refrigerated or frozen, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Delve into the process and discover how to make this classic dish that’s not just about cooking, it’s about creating cherished memories. Bolognese Sauce Ingredients For the Base Olive Oil – Provides the cooking fat for sautéing vegetables; use extra virgin for enhanced flavor. Carrots – Adds natural sweetness to the sauce; substitute with finely chopped parsnips for a different flavor profile. Celery – Contributes to the soffritto mix for foundational flavor; can be omitted in a pinch if necessary. Onion – Enhances sweetness and depth; substitute with shallots for a milder taste. Garlic – Adds a savory depth; feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference. For the Sauce Ground Beef – The primary protein; an 80/20 mix ensures good fat content for flavor. Substitute with ground pork or turkey for a lighter version. Dry White Wine – Adds acidity and brightness; avoid sweet wines and go for pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc for the best results. Whole Canned Tomatoes – Provides the sauce’s base; crushed San Marzano tomatoes are best, but diced tomatoes can be used if crushed first. Tomato Paste – Intensifies tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce. Bay Leaf – Infuses the sauce with subtle herbal aroma; can be replaced with fresh bay leaves if you have them handy. For Creaminess Whole Milk – Creates a rich, creamy texture; 2% milk works, too. Let it reach room temperature to prevent curdling. Salt and Ground Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste. Pasta Pairing Pappardelle or Tagliatelle Pasta – These pasta types hold the sauce well; any sturdy pasta like rigatoni or penne can be swapped in. Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – For finishing touches; contributes umami and saltiness. Substitute with pecorino for a sharper taste. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best Creamy Bolognese Sauce Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add finely chopped carrots, celery, and onion, sautéing for about 7 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Stir in minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until it’s aromatic but not browned, creating a flavorful base for your Bolognese sauce. Step 2: Brown the Beef Next, incorporate 1 pound of ground beef into the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5 minutes until the beef is nicely browned, stirring occasionally. Once browned, pour in ½ cup of dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release those delicious brown bits, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning After the wine has evaporated, add 28 ounces of crushed canned tomatoes and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the meat. Toss in 1 bay leaf for added herbal flavor. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, partially covering the pot. Let it simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, allowing the sauce to thicken and deepen in flavor. Step 4: Thicken the Sauce Once the initial simmering period is complete, uncover the pot and allow the sauce to simmer for another hour. This step allows the Bolognese sauce to thicken more, enriching the flavors. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Step 5: Stir in the Milk Remove the bay leaf from the sauce and slowly mix in 1 cup of room temperature whole milk. This will create a creamy texture in your Bolognese sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed for perfect savoriness. Step 6: Cook the Pasta While the sauce is finishing up, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook your choice of pappardelle or tagliatelle pasta according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes for perfect al dente texture. Drain the pasta, ensuring you reserve a bit of the pasta water for later. Step 7: Combine and Serve Gently toss the cooked pasta with the creamy Bolognese sauce in the pot, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to help coat the noodles evenly. Serve immediately while hot, garnishing each plate with freshly grated Parmesan cheese to enhance this comforting Italian dish. What to Serve with Best Creamy Bolognese Sauce Elevate your dining experience by pairing this creamy delight with the perfect accompaniments that burst with flavor and texture. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s the perfect tool for savoring every drop of sauce. The garlic adds an aromatic element that complements the rich Bolognese beautifully. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a vibrant, refreshing balance to the hearty sauce. The acidity of the tomatoes will cut through the creaminess, making each bite delightful. Roasted Vegetables: Medleys of seasonal veggies offer a lovely contrast in texture and a subtle sweet caramelization that enhances the flavor profile of the Bolognese. Herbed Parmesan Risotto: Creamy risotto infused with fresh herbs can elevate your meal further. Its creamy texture aligns wonderfully with the sauce, creating a harmonious plate. Red Wine: A medium-bodied red like Chianti or Merlot complements the rich flavors beautifully. Its tannins blend with the meaty notes, making every sip a celebration. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, opt for a rich chocolate mousse that wraps up the meal with a touch of sweetness. Its airy texture contrasts marvelously with the hearty Bolognese. Italian Tiramisu: End your meal on a classic note with this coffee-infused dessert. The layers of mascarpone blend perfectly with the savory notes of the sauce you just savored. Bolognese Variations & Substitutions Feel free to explore your culinary creativity by personalizing this creamy Bolognese sauce recipe! Pork Blend: Mix ground pork with beef for a sweeter, rich flavor. This adds depth and creates a delightful meat profile perfect for those who love variety. Mushroom Medley: Add finely diced mushrooms for an earthy touch. They enhance umami flavors while providing a lovely texture contrast to the meat. Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef with lentils or crumbled tempeh. This makes a fantastic plant-based alternative while maintaining a hearty feel. Cream Options: Use heavy cream instead of whole milk for an extra indulgent sauce. This enhances the creaminess and gives it a luxurious finish. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Adjust to your preference for a warming twist that enhances flavor profiles wonderfully! Alternative Pasta Shapes: Try your Bolognese sauce over spaghetti squash or zoodles for a low-carb version. These swaps add vibrant colors and fresh textures to your meal. Herb Infusion: Experiment by incorporating fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the sauce. This adds a fresh burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish. For further inspiration, why not check out how to make delicious homemade pasta for your next creation? A great dish deserves the perfect pasta! Or explore storing options to keep your delicious sauce fresh for future meals with great tips for freezing Bolognese. Happy cooking! How to Store and Freeze Bolognese Fridge: Store leftover Bolognese sauce in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: Freeze the Bolognese sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes. Thawing: Thaw frozen Bolognese sauce overnight in the fridge. For a quick thaw, you can use a microwave, but be careful not to cook it. Reheating: Gently reheat the sauce on medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water for the perfect consistency. Expert Tips for the Best Bolognese Chop Finely: Ensure vegetables are finely chopped to create a smooth soffritto. This step helps blend flavors and avoids chunky textures in your Bolognese. Wine Choice Matters: Use dry white wine for a brighter flavor. Sweet wines can throw off the balance of this classic sauce. Tomato Preparation: Crush canned tomatoes thoroughly before adding them to ensure even integration into the sauce for a velvety consistency. Slow Simmer: Maintain low heat for the full two hours to develop rich flavors without burning. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Milk Temperature: Always add room temperature milk slowly to prevent curdling in the sauce, ensuring that your Bolognese remains creamy. Make Ahead Options This creamy Bolognese sauce is a lifesaver for busy weeknights and perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container. To maintain its rich flavor, let it cool completely before sealing. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently over medium-low heat until warmed through. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months—just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Pair it with cooked pasta that you can prepare fresh or the same day for an effortless yet comforting meal that tastes just as delicious as when made fresh! Creamy Bolognese Sauce Recipe FAQs What type of ground beef should I use for Bolognese sauce? I recommend using an 80/20 mix of ground beef for optimal flavor and richness in your creamy Bolognese sauce. This ratio provides the necessary fat content, giving your dish depth and a comforting mouthfeel. If you prefer a lighter version, feel free to substitute part of the beef with ground pork or turkey, which still retains delicious flavor. How can I store leftover Bolognese sauce? Absolutely! Store leftover Bolognese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain the best flavor possible. If you’re unsure about consuming it within that timeframe, consider freezing it instead! Can I freeze the Bolognese sauce? Yes, you can! Freeze your creamy Bolognese sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion, for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the fridge. For a quicker option, you can use your microwave, but watch carefully to avoid partially cooking it. What should I do if my Bolognese sauce is too thick? If your sauce turns out too thick, don’t sweat it! Just add a splash of broth or water while gently reheating it on medium heat. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors. You’ll find the sauce returning to a lush, creamy consistency in no time. Can I make this Bolognese sauce with dietary restrictions in mind? Definitely! If you have dietary concerns, consider using gluten-free pasta and ensuring your wine is free from sulfites if you’re sensitive. For dairy-free versions, you can experiment with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk, stirring these in at the end for creaminess. However, keep in mind that the flavor may change a bit, so adjust seasoning to your taste. What should I look for when selecting canned tomatoes? When choosing canned tomatoes for your Bolognese sauce, look for high-quality crushed San Marzano tomatoes, as they provide a rich, nuanced flavor. Avoid cans that have dark spots or bulges, indicating they may be spoiled. If crushed tomatoes aren’t available, diced tomatoes can work too—just crush them before adding to the pot for smooth integration. Creamy Bolognese Sauce That Feels Like a Warm Hug No ratings yet This creamy Bolognese sauce offers a warm embrace, combining ground beef, vegetables, and white wine for a comforting dinner experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 3 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Extra virgin recommended1 cup Carrots Finely chopped1 cup Celery Finely chopped1 cup Onion Finely chopped2 cloves Garlic MincedFor the Sauce1 pound Ground Beef 80/20 mix recommended½ cup Dry White Wine Avoid sweet wines28 ounces Whole Canned Tomatoes Crushed San Marzano preferred2 tablespoons Tomato Paste1 leaf Bay Leaf Can replace with fresh bay leavesFor Creaminess1 cup Whole Milk Room temperatureto taste Saltto taste Ground Black PepperPasta Pairing12 ounces Pappardelle or Tagliatelle Pasta Any sturdy pasta works½ cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Substitute with pecorino if desired Equipment large potwooden spoonmeasuring cupsknifecutting board Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Best Creamy Bolognese SauceIn a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add finely chopped carrots, celery, and onion, sautéing for about 7 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Stir in minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until it's aromatic but not browned.Next, incorporate 1 pound of ground beef into the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5 minutes until the beef is nicely browned, stirring occasionally. Once browned, pour in ½ cup of dry white wine.After the wine has evaporated, add 28 ounces of crushed canned tomatoes and 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the meat. Toss in 1 bay leaf. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, partially covering the pot. Let it simmer for 2 hours.Once the initial simmering period is complete, uncover the pot and allow the sauce to simmer for another hour.Remove the bay leaf from the sauce and slowly mix in 1 cup of room temperature whole milk. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook your choice of pappardelle or tagliatelle pasta according to the package directions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the pasta water.Gently toss the cooked pasta with the creamy Bolognese sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Serve immediately while hot, garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg NotesEnsure vegetables are finely chopped for a smooth texture. Use dry white wine and thoroughly crush canned tomatoes for best results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
