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
- 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