We love diving into comforting classics like Bolognese, and our Creamy Bolognese recipe takes this Italian favorite to new heights. Originating from Bologna, it’s traditionally a hearty meat sauce, but we’ve added a luxurious cream element that makes it velvety and irresistible for family dinners or date nights.
This twist keeps the authentic flavors we cherish while offering a simple way to elevate your pasta game. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, we’ll guide you through creating a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
For our Creamy Bolognese recipe, we carefully select high-quality ingredients to create a rich, velvety sauce that elevates your pasta dishes. Below, we’ve listed them in the order they are typically used, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing; opt for extra-virgin for enhanced flavor.
- 1 medium onion, finely diced: Forms the base of the soffritto; ensures even cooking and deep aroma.
- 1 large carrot, finely diced: Adds sweetness and texture; pair with celery for a classic Italian foundation.
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced: Complements the carrot and onion; chop uniformly for consistent results.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Introduces a pungent depth; mince fresh garlic just before use to preserve its oils.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein; choose lean ground beef for a lighter version of our creamy twist.
- 1/2 pound ground pork: Blends with beef for added richness; use fresh, high-quality meat for the best taste.
- 1 cup red wine: Deglazes the pan; select a dry varietal like Chianti to enhance the sauce’s complexity.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor; stir in thoroughly to avoid lumps.
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes: Builds the sauce’s body; use San Marzano tomatoes for authentic Italian taste.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and depth; low-sodium options help control seasoning.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Key to our creamy variation; add towards the end for a silky finish without curdling.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Season throughout; start with 1 teaspoon salt and adjust based on your broth.
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped: Garnishes and infuses herbal notes; about 1/4 cup for a burst of freshness.
Required Tools and Equipment
Now that we’ve outlined the key ingredients for our Creamy Bolognese, let’s equip our kitchen with the essential tools to bring this rich, velvety sauce to life. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and helps us achieve that perfect simmer without any hitches.
We recommend gathering these must-have tools in advance, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot: This is crucial for browning the meat and vegetables then simmering the sauce slowly. Opt for one at least 5 quarts to handle the volume and prevent spills.
- Sharp chef’s knife and sturdy cutting board: Ideal for finely chopping onion, carrot, celery, and garlic to create the flavorful base. A sharp knife speeds up prep and ensures even cuts for better cooking.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Perfect for stirring the ground beef and pork mixture without scratching your pot. We find it essential for scraping up those flavorful browned bits from the bottom.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key in our Creamy Bolognese, so use these to measure ingredients like olive oil, red wine, and heavy cream precisely.
- Garlic press or fine grater: This tool makes quick work of garlic, releasing its pungent aroma and ensuring it integrates smoothly into the sauce for maximum flavor.
With these tools ready, we’re set to transition seamlessly into the cooking process, making our Creamy Bolognese not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential tools, let’s walk through preparing our Creamy Bolognese step by step. We’ll ensure each stage builds a rich velvety sauce perfect for elevating your pasta dishes.
Prep the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, we prepare our vegetables and meats to ensure everything integrates smoothly. Begin by finely chopping 1 medium onion, 2 carrots, and 2 celery stalks into even 1/4-inch pieces for optimal texture— this creates a solid base called sofrito that adds depth to our sauce. Next, mince 4 garlic cloves using a garlic press or knife to release their pungent aroma. Measure out 1 pound ground beef and 1/2 pound ground pork, keeping them chilled until needed to maintain freshness. Additionally, open and measure 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes, 1/2 cup red wine, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 cup beef broth, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and tear a handful of fresh basil leaves for later. With these steps complete, our ingredients are ready to transform into a flavorful masterpiece.
Cook the Meat and Vegetables
We start by building the foundation of our Creamy Bolognese in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil until it shimmers, then add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery—stir frequently for about 5 minutes until they soften and release a sweet earthy scent that fills the kitchen. Push the vegetables to the sides and add the ground beef and ground pork, breaking them up with a wooden spoon as they brown for 7-8 minutes—ensure the meat is no longer pink for a juicy yet caramelized texture. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until its fragrant punch enhances the mix. This step locks in robust flavors making our sauce irresistibly hearty.
Simmer the Sauce
Once the meat and vegetables are ready, we deglaze the pot to capture every bit of flavor. Pour in 1/2 cup red wine and scrape the bottom with a silicone spatula to loosen the browned bits, letting it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol evaporates and the mixture reduces slightly. Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste to thicken the base, followed by 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes and 1 cup beef broth—this combination creates a vibrant tangy foundation. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let the sauce simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, the sauce thickens and develops a deep rich aroma that signals it’s nearing perfection.
Add Cream and Finish
To achieve the signature creaminess, we incorporate the final elements that elevate our Bolognese. After simmering, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream gradually to prevent curdling, and continue cooking for 5 more minutes until the sauce turns silky and coats the back of a spoon with a luxurious sheen. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, then fold in the torn fresh basil leaves for a bright herbaceous note. Remove from heat and let it rest for 2 minutes—now our Creamy Bolognese is ready to serve over pasta, delivering a velvety mouthfeel that will impress at any meal.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Creamy Bolognese is its ability to improve with time, as the flavors meld and deepen for an even richer, more velvety sauce. We recommend preparing it in advance to make weeknight dinners effortless while enhancing that signature creamy texture and aromatic depth.
Preparing and Storing the Sauce
Follow these steps to make ahead and store your Creamy Bolognese safely:
- Cook the sauce completely: Once you’ve finished the simmering process as outlined in our step-by-step instructions, remove the pot from heat and let the sauce cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the velvety mouthfeel to set without overcooking.
- Portion for convenience: Divide the cooled sauce into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. We suggest using portions that match your typical serving size, such as 2-cup amounts, to minimize waste and make reheating straightforward.
- Refrigerate or freeze promptly: For short-term storage, transfer to the refrigerator where it will keep for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place in the freezer, where it can last up to 3 months. Always label containers with the date to track freshness.
To help you plan effectively, here’s a quick overview of storage guidelines in table form:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Store in glass or plastic containers to preserve the sauce’s rich aroma and prevent absorption of other odors. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Use freezer bags to save space, and squeeze out air to avoid freezer burn, maintaining the sauce’s creamy consistency. |
Reheating for Optimal Flavor
When you’re ready to enjoy your Creamy Bolognese, reheat it gently to retain its luxurious creaminess and bold flavors:
- From the refrigerator: Transfer the sauce to a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon until it reaches a simmer, about 5-7 minutes. If it thickens, add a splash of beef broth or water to restore the original silky texture.
- From the freezer: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator first for the best results. Then, reheat as above, or use a microwave in short bursts (1-2 minutes on medium power), stirring in between to ensure even heating and prevent the cream from separating.
By making ahead, we ensure your Creamy Bolognese not only saves time but also delivers an even more impressive depth of flavor, making it a go-to for effortless, crowd-pleasing meals.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this Creamy Bolognese to bring a touch of elegance to your table. It’s more than a recipe—it’s a gateway to effortless, flavorful meals we’ll cherish. Dive in and let it spark your culinary adventures. You won’t regret adding it to your repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Bolognese?
Creamy Bolognese is a modern twist on the classic Italian meat sauce from Bologna, featuring added cream for extra richness. It’s perfect for family dinners or date nights, elevating pasta dishes with a velvety texture and deep flavors. This recipe suits both beginners and experienced cooks, helping you create a go-to kitchen staple.
What ingredients are needed for Creamy Bolognese?
Key ingredients include olive oil, onion, carrot, celery, garlic, ground beef, ground pork, red wine, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, heavy cream, and fresh basil. They’re selected for building a rich, velvety sauce, with precise measurements provided for accuracy. Prep them in the order used to ensure smooth cooking.
What tools are required to make Creamy Bolognese?
You’ll need a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot for simmering, a sharp chef’s knife and cutting board for chopping, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, measuring cups and spoons for precision, and a garlic press or grater. These essentials make preparation easy and efficient for a delicious result.
How do I prepare Creamy Bolognese step by step?
Start by prepping and chopping vegetables. Cook meat and veggies in a Dutch oven to build flavor, then add red wine to deglaze. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth; simmer until aromatic. Finally, mix in heavy cream and fresh basil for creaminess. Let it rest briefly before serving over pasta.
Can I make Creamy Bolognese ahead of time?
Yes, Creamy Bolognese improves as flavors meld, making it ideal for advance prep. Cook fully, cool, then portion and store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. This method allows for effortless meals with enhanced taste—just reheat gently on the stove.
How should I store Creamy Bolognese?
Cool the sauce completely, then transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, and reheat on low heat with a splash of broth or water to maintain its creamy texture and bold flavors.
What makes this Bolognese creamy?
The creaminess comes from adding heavy cream at the end of cooking, which enriches the traditional sauce without overpowering it. Combined with simmered ingredients like tomatoes, meat, and wine, it creates a velvety mouthfeel that’s perfect for pasta, making this version a luxurious upgrade.