Searching for satisfying pasta dinner recipes? Look no further than this incredibly flavorful Slow-Simmered Beef Bolognese. This classic dish offers rich, comforting flavors that are perfect for a cozy night in, and it’s surprisingly simple to master.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less fat. Ground turkey or a blend of ground beef and veal can also work.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes or even tomato puree can be used if crushed tomatoes aren’t available, just expect a slightly different texture.
- Aromatics (Onion, Carrots, Celery): These form the flavor base. You can use pre-chopped mirepoix for convenience.
- Beef Broth: Vegetable broth is a suitable substitute if needed.
Ingredients
Main
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Cooked pasta, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-550 (depending on pasta and portion size)
- Tools Needed: Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 8-10 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your pasta dinner recipes.
3. Build the Sauce Base
Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the tomato paste and stir it into the mixture, cooking for 2-3 minutes to deepen its flavor.
4. Simmer to Perfection
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir everything together, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let your bolognese simmer for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld into a rich and hearty sauce.
5. Season and Serve
After simmering, taste your bolognese and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Serve your delicious Slow-Simmered Beef Bolognese over your favorite cooked pasta, perhaps with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This truly is one of the most rewarding pasta dinner recipes.
Variation Ideas
- Heartier Vegetables: Add finely diced bell peppers or zucchini during the aromatic sauté step.
- Herby Freshness: Stir in a handful of fresh chopped basil or oregano during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes for a bolder kick.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Slow-Simmered Beef Bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, bolognese often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
- What kind of pasta works best? Traditionally, bolognese is served with wide, flat pasta like tagliatelle or pappardelle, but it’s also delicious with spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni.
- Why is draining the fat important? Draining excess fat prevents your bolognese from becoming greasy and allows the rich tomato and beef flavors to shine through.
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Absolutely! Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried for a more vibrant flavor. Add them towards the end of the cooking process.
- My bolognese is too thick, what should I do? If your sauce becomes too thick during simmering, simply add a little more beef broth (1/4 to 1/2 cup at a time) until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Is this a good recipe for beginners? Yes, this recipe is very beginner-friendly. The most important step is simply allowing it enough time to simmer.