Simple Weeknight Bolognese Quick and Comforting Meal

Looking for a quick meal that packs comfort and flavor? My Simple Weeknight Bolognese is here to save your dinner! With just a few fresh ingredients and basic steps, you’ll create a rich sauce that transforms any pasta into a delightful dish. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying for the whole family!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb ground beef or turkey

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 carrot, finely diced

– 1 celery stalk, finely diced

– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

– 1 tablespoon tomato paste

The main ingredients create the base of your Bolognese. Ground beef or turkey gives a nice protein boost. Chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery provide flavor and texture. The crushed tomatoes and tomato paste add richness and depth.

Seasonings

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

– Salt and pepper to taste

Seasonings are key to a great sauce. Oregano and basil bring warmth and earthiness. Red pepper flakes add a hint of heat, but you can skip them if you prefer mild flavors. Salt and pepper help balance everything.

Accompaniments

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

– 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of choice

Olive oil is essential for sautéing. Fresh basil leaves add a bright finish. Grated Parmesan cheese brings a salty kick. Choose your favorite pasta to serve this sauce over, and you’re set for a cozy meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– First, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

– Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until they soften.

– Next, add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for another minute but watch it closely so it does not burn.

– Increase the heat to medium-high. Then add 1 pound of ground beef or turkey. Cook until it is browned and no longer pink, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks.

Sauce Preparation

– Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 can of crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want some heat.

– Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and mix well.

– Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the pan.

Cooking Pasta

– While the sauce simmers, boil 12 ounces of spaghetti or pasta of your choice according to the package instructions until al dente.

– Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

– When the sauce has thickened, taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.

– Serve the Bolognese sauce over the cooked pasta. Top it with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a nice touch.

Tips & Tricks

Time-Saving Strategies

– Use pre-chopped vegetables. They save time on prep. Fresh options work well, too.

– Opt for no-cook pasta. It cooks in the sauce, cutting down on pots and pans.

Flavor Enhancements

– Add a splash of red wine for depth. It makes the sauce richer and tastier.

– Incorporate a bay leaf during simmering. This boosts flavor and smells great.

Serving Suggestions

– Pair with garlic bread or a side salad. These sides complement the Bolognese well.

– Use different pasta shapes for variety. Try penne or rigatoni for a fun twist.

Variations

Meat Alternatives

You can switch ground turkey for plant-based protein. This makes the dish lighter and suitable for vegans. You can also use pork or a mix of meats. This adds a richer flavor and depth to your Bolognese sauce. Mixing meats creates a savory taste that many enjoy.

Sauce Modifications

Adding mushrooms or bell peppers gives your sauce extra veggies. This boosts nutrition and flavor. You can also stir in some cream for a richer Bolognese. The cream makes the sauce smooth and creamy. This small change can transform your dish into something special.

Dietary Adjustments

If you need gluten-free options, choose gluten-free pasta. This allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the meal. You can also replace cheese with dairy-free options. Nutritional yeast or cashew cheese works well for a cheesy taste without dairy. These changes make the dish accessible for everyone.

Storage Info

Leftover Storage

You can store leftover Bolognese sauce in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the sauce. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Instructions

When you are ready to enjoy the sauce again, thaw the frozen sauce overnight in the fridge. To reheat, use a skillet on the stove or a microwave. Just make sure it is heated evenly before serving.

Meal Prep Tips

Batch cooking is a great way to save time. Cook a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals later. When you store the sauce and pasta, keep them separate. This way, the pasta won’t get mushy when reheated.

FAQs

Can I make Bolognese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Bolognese sauce ahead of time. Here are some tips:

– Cook the sauce and let it cool.

– Store it in an airtight container.

– Keep it in the fridge for up to three days.

– You can also freeze it for up to three months.

– To reheat, just warm it on the stove.

How can I thicken my Bolognese sauce?

If your sauce is too runny, here are a few options to thicken it:

– Let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid.

– Add more tomato paste for thickness and flavor.

– Stir in a bit of grated cheese as it cooks.

– You can also mash some of the sauce with a fork.

– If you have it, add a cornstarch slurry to help.

What can I serve with Bolognese besides pasta?

There are many tasty options to serve with Bolognese sauce:

– Try it over polenta for a creamy base.

– Serve it with garlic bread for a crunchy side.

– You can use zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

– A fresh salad pairs well for a light touch.

– Use it as a filling for baked potatoes or stuffed peppers.

This article covered the essential ingredients and steps to create a tasty Bolognese sauce. We explored meat options, sauce tips, and storage advice. Plus, I shared ways to enhance flavor and variations for different diets.

In cooking, there’s always room for creativity. So feel free to adjust based on your tastes. Enjoy making Bolognese meals that your family will lov