Why Make This Recipe
One-Pot Bolognese is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for any family dinner. It combines tender ground beef with rich tomatoes and aromatic vegetables. The best part? You only need one pot to make it, which means less cleanup for you! This recipe brings everyone together and is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
How to Make One-Pot Bolognese
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- If using red wine, pour it in and allow it to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, milk, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the flavors meld together.
- Serve over your choice of cooked pasta and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Serve One-Pot Bolognese
One-Pot Bolognese is best served over your favorite type of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine. You can also pair it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
How to Store One-Pot Bolognese
If you have leftovers or want to save some for later, let the Bolognese cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make One-Pot Bolognese
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you cook the veggies.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer without the lid.
Variation
You can easily change this recipe to use ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option. You may also substitute the milk with cream for a richer sauce, or omit it entirely for a more traditional Bolognese.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?
Yes, canned tomato sauce works well if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust the seasonings as needed.
2. How do I know when the Bolognese is done?
It’s ready when the sauce has thickened, and the flavors have blended together nicely—usually after about 20-30 minutes.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it a day in advance. The flavors deepen as it sits in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove when ready to serve.