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Pasta alla Bolognese

Pasta alla Bolognese is one of those timeless, comforting dishes that brings the warmth of Italy right to your plate. This classic Italian recipe is full of rich flavors, with a meaty sauce that perfectly complements al dente pasta.
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Course Appetizer
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 carrot peeled and diced
  • 1 celery stalk diced
  • 1 14.5 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup red wine optional
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb pasta spaghetti, tagliatelle, fettuccine, or rigatoni
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving optional

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the ingredients: Start by chopping the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic.
  • Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  • Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and garlic to the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
  • Add the liquids: Pour in the red wine (if using) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol evaporates. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix well.
  • Season the sauce: Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmering will allow the flavors to meld together and deepen.
  • Cook the pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  • Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the Bolognese sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • Serve: Divide the pasta among plates, top with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired), and enjoy!
Keyword Pasta alla Bolognese
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