Few things comfort the soul like a bubbling pot of Classic Homemade Bolognese Sauce. This rich, meaty Italian staple is a slow-simmered masterpiece of ground beef, crushed tomatoes, aromatic vegetables, and herbs. It delivers bold depth of flavor and a nostalgic taste of rustic home cooking.

Whether you spoon it over rigatoni, layer it in lasagna, or freeze it for later use, Bolognese sauce is endlessly versatile. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with savory aromas and rewards your patience with every tender bite. If you’re looking to master a hearty, crowd-pleasing meat sauce, this recipe is a must-have in your collection.

Ingredients for this Classic Homemade Bolognese Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound ground beef (85/15)
1/2 pound ground pork (optional for richness)
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 cup whole milk
1 cup dry white wine
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until vegetables are softened and slightly golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add the ground beef (and pork, if using) to the pot. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Deglaze

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes to caramelize slightly. Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer until the wine has mostly evaporated.

Step 4: Simmer Slowly

Add the crushed tomatoes, milk, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a low simmer and reduce heat. Cook uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The sauce should be thick and rich.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir in chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve over cooked pasta and top with grated Parmesan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What pasta works best with Bolognese sauce?

Wide noodles like tagliatelle, pappardelle, or rigatoni hold the sauce well, but it also pairs nicely with spaghetti or baked pasta dishes.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead?

Yes, though beef and pork add more richness. If using leaner meats, consider adding a tablespoon of butter for added flavor.

Do I have to simmer it for 2 hours?

The long simmer develops deep flavor, but in a pinch, 45 minutes to 1 hour can still yield a tasty result.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can skip the milk or use a dairy-free substitute. It helps mellow the acidity, so a splash of oat or soy milk can work well.

Is it okay to skip the wine?

You can replace it with beef broth if needed. Wine enhances the depth but isn’t essential.

What can I use this sauce for besides pasta?

Try it in lasagna, stuffed shells, baked ziti, or spooned over polenta for a rustic meal.