Big-Batch Bolognese: A Hearty Feast for All
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef and pork. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
- Pour in the red wine and let it simmer until reduced by half, which will take around 5 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, bay leaves, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. For an even richer flavor, you can cook it longer, up to 4 hours if time allows.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the lid and stir in the whole milk. Continue to simmer until the sauce is thick and creamy.
- Serve the bolognese sauce over your favorite cooked pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 2-4 hours | Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes to 4 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 8-10Cooking Time: 2-4 hoursTotal Time: 2 hours 20 minutes to 4 hours 20 minutesKcal: Approximately 600 kcal per serving
There’s something undeniably comforting about a pot of simmering bolognese. The rich, meaty sauce clinging to the curves of perfectly cooked pasta is a universal language of love and comfort. This Big-Batch Bolognese recipe is a tribute to the traditional Italian kitchen, with a few tweaks to make it more accessible for the modern home cook. Whether you’re looking to feed a large family, meal prep for the week, or impress guests at your next dinner party, this bolognese is the answer. It’s a dish that warms the heart as much as it satisfies the appetite, and the leftovers (if you’re lucky to have any) only get better with time. Let’s embark on a culinary journey that promises a delicious payoff with every bite.
Recipe Name: Big-Batch Bolognese
How to Prepare:
The key to a great bolognese is patience. Allow the sauce to simmer to develop deep, complex flavors. If you find the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a bit of pasta water or broth. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer with the lid off to reduce and thicken.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 600 | Total Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 110mg | Sodium: 800mg | Total Carbohydrates: 40g | Dietary Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 12g | Protein: 35g
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storing Leftovers:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The bolognese can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
Food or Drink Pairings:
Pair your Big-Batch Bolognese with a robust red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, to complement the richness of the sauce. A simple green salad dressed with a balsamic vinaigrette and crusty bread for mopping up the sauce would round out the meal beautifully.
Tips, Shortcuts, and Swaps:
- For a quicker version, you can cook the sauce for a minimum of 30 minutes, but the flavors won’t be as developed.
- Swap the ground beef and pork for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add a splash of cream instead of milk for an even more decadent sauce.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used; reduce the quantity by half.
With this Big-Batch Bolognese, you’re not just making a meal; you’re creating a moment to be shared and savored. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend dinner, this recipe promises to deliver a taste of Italian comfort to your table.
