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Ultimate Bolognese Sauce

Ultimate Bolognese Sauce: Hearty Comfort for Every Table

Discover the Ultimate Bolognese Sauce, a comforting dish that brings together layers of flavor and warmth—a perfect addition to any table.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Beef
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil adds depth of flavor for sautéing
  • 2 tablespoons butter for richness, use olive oil for dairy-free
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped provides a sweet base
  • 2 large carrots, finely chopped must be fresh for sweetness and body
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped adds aromatic complexity
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped reduce for milder taste
For the Meats
  • 4 ounces pancetta, diced substitute with prosciutto or omit for pork-free
  • 1 pound ground beef, 20% fat primary protein
  • 1 pound ground pork enhances overall flavor
For Seasoning and Flavor
  • Salt and Freshly Ground Pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 cup dry white wine optional; can substitute with broth
  • 1 can (28 ounces) peeled San Marzano tomatoes, hand crushed for rich tomato flavor and thickness
  • 1 cup whole milk substitute with non-dairy milk for lighter option
  • ½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg a pinch of cinnamon can substitute
  • 1 cup heavy cream optional for richness
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano is a fine substitute
  • ½ cup chopped parsley optional for brightness

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add finely chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5 to 8 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in chopped garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Add diced pancetta and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Mix into the vegetable base.
  4. In the same pot, brown the ground beef and pork in batches for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
  5. Combine the cooked meat mixture with vegetables and pancetta, then pour in the wine, stirring to deglaze the pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
  6. Add hand-crushed tomatoes, whole milk, and nutmeg. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
  8. Once thickened, stir in cream and Parmesan cheese, adjusting seasoning to taste.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving over pasta or using for lasagna.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 40gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Allow the sauce to sit overnight for better flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

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