Quick bolognese
Quick Bolognese is a rich and flavorful sauce made with ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, all cooked in under an hour. Ideal for busy weeknights, it’s ready to serve with pasta or your dish of choice.
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
2 tbsp olive oil1 onion
2 garlic cloves
2 lb ground beef (80/20%)
1/3 cup tomato puree
2 cans canned tomatoes
1/3 cup dried oregano
1 tsp cinnamon
Quick Bolognese is a delightful recipe that's perfect for those craving a rich, flavorful sauce without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe utilizes a handful of simple ingredients and can be easily prepared in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal.
Instructions:
- Finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Open the cans of tomatoes and set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
- Cook the beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula until it is fully browned and no pink remains, about 7-10 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the tomato puree, making sure it is evenly distributed.
- Add the canned tomatoes, breaking them up with a spoon so they're well integrated into the sauce.
- Sprinkle in the dried oregano and ground cinnamon, stirring to combine well with the meat and tomato mixture.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if necessary. You can add salt and pepper to taste, though it's optional based on personal preference.
- Serve the bolognese sauce hot over your choice of pasta, spaghetti, or any dish you prefer. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil for extra flavor if desired.
This Quick Bolognese is a versatile and delicious recipe that brings the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine to your table with minimal effort. Whether served over pasta, stuffed in bell peppers, or as a base for lasagna, this sauce is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the rich and hearty taste with your loved ones!
Quick bolognese FAQ:
The bolognese sauce should simmer for about 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together while stirring occasionally.
Leftover bolognese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used.
A large skillet or pot is recommended, ideally one that can hold at least 4 quarts to accommodate the sauce as it simmers.
The ground beef is fully cooked when it turns brown and there is no pink remaining. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Tips:
- For a deeper flavor, allow the sauce to simmer for an extra 15-20 minutes if time permits.
- Feel free to add diced carrots and celery for added texture and nutritional value.
- Using a mix of ground beef and ground pork can add an extra layer of flavor to the sauce.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Serve with a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for a classic finish.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 670kcal
Protein 44g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 11g
Sugar 9g
Fat 55g
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