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Simple Bolognese

Hearty Simple Bolognese: Your Family's New Favorite Dinner

This Simple Bolognese recipe is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and easy preparation, making it a go-to for families.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Base
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Essential for sautéing; adds flavor and richness.
  • 1 medium Onion Coarsely chopped; substitute with shallots for a sweeter flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Coarsely chopped; always use fresh for the best flavor.
  • 1 stalk Celery Coarsely chopped; can be omitted.
  • 1 Carrot Coarsely chopped; contributes natural sweetness.
Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground Chuck Beef Main protein; ground turkey is a leaner option.
  • 2 14-ounce cans Crushed Cherry Tomatoes Forms the sauce base.
  • 1/4 cup Flat-leaf Italian Parsley Chopped; adds freshness.
  • 8 Fresh Basil Leaves Chopped; imparts aromatic notes.
  • Salt Adjust to taste.
  • Pepper Adjust to taste.
Finishing Touch
  • 1/4 cup Pecorino Romano Cheese Freshly grated; adds creaminess.
  • 1 lb Pasta Such as mezzi rigatoni or pappardelle.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet, pour in 1/4 cup of olive oil and warm it over medium heat until it shimmers, about 2 minutes.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, sautéing for about 8 minutes until softened.
  3. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped celery and carrot, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
  4. Cook the Beef: Increase the heat to high and add 1 pound of ground chuck beef, breaking it up. Cook for about 10 minutes until browned.
  5. Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Lower the heat to medium-low, mix in the crushed cherry tomatoes, parsley, and basil. Simmer for 30 minutes.
  6. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add 1 pound of pasta, and cook until al dente, about 8-9 minutes.
  7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Transfer the cooked pasta to the Bolognese sauce, tossing together for a minute.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For longer simmering, consider adding a splash of red wine for extra flavor.

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