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A Hearty Twist on Classic Bolognese: A Comforting Pasta Delight


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  • Author: Raven
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

When you’re craving something comforting yet bursting with flavor, A Hearty Twist on Classic Bolognese is the perfect choice. This recipe transforms a classic into a quick, hearty meal that’s perfect for weeknights or when you’re hosting friends and family. Lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and fragrant basil come together in a savory sauce that clings perfectly to tagliatelle pasta. Top it with Parmesan, and you’ve got a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 450 g ground beef (lean for a healthier option)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, diced
  • 3 sticks of celery, chopped
  • 120 ml dry red wine (or substitute with beef broth)
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 200 g canned chopped tomatoes (or fresh for a rustic flavor)
  • 250 g tagliatelle pasta (or your preferred pasta variety)
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  • Chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery finely. Keep them separate for easy cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  • Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned (about 5–7 minutes), then remove it from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

  • In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and garlic.
  • Cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze with Red Wine

  • Pour the red wine (or beef broth) into the pan, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for 3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Combine Meat and Tomatoes

  • Return the browned beef to the pan. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and half the basil leaves.
  • Season the sauce with salt and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for 20–30 minutes. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or beef broth.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tagliatelle and cook according to the package instructions for an al dente texture.
  • Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce

  • Add the cooked tagliatelle to the pan with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
  • Stir in the remaining basil leaves for a fresh burst of flavor.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

  • Plate the tagliatelle and sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add a drizzle of olive oil and a crack of black pepper for extra flair. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Substitute Options: If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, use beef broth instead of red wine.
  • Extra Veggies: You can add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to enhance the nutritional value.
  • Make Ahead: The sauce can be prepared a day in advance and reheated when ready to serve.
  • Freezing Tip: This Bolognese sauce freezes well—store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired