Red Wine Braised Bolognese

Why This Is the Best Bolognese Recipe

If you're looking for a rich, Bolognese recipe, you're in the right place! This slow-cooked meat sauce is full of deep, savory flavors, making it perfect for pasta dishes, lasagna, or meal prepping. Follow this recipe for a taste of Italy in your own kitchen.

Serves 6-8

Ingredients: 500g Beef mince, 1 finely diced onion, carrot and celery stick, 3 cloves grated garlic, 1 tsp each of garlic granules, oregano, basil and rosemary, 100g tomato puree, 2x400g cans chopped tomatoes, 200ml (about a small bottle of wine), 2 bay leaves, 1 Tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper as needed. 

1. Sauté the vegetables

 Heat a large frying pan over a medium heat (I like to use a cast iron casserole pot but use what you have) and add your olive oil, onion, carrot, celery and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Cook down the vegetables for 10-15 minutes until completely soft.

2. Brown the meat

 Add your beef mince and break it up using a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook the mince down and let it caramelise slightly.

3. Add seasonings

Add the tomato puree and grated garlic. Stir and cook out the tomato puree for 5-10 minutes.

4. Deglaze with wine (or beef stock)

Add the wine and stir and let reduce for 5-10 minutes.

5. Add remaining seasonings 

 Add the garlic granules, oregano, basil, rosemary, bay leaves, the chopped tomatoes and a good pinch of salt and pepper.

6. Simmer low and slow

 Reduce the heat and let simmer down until thickened (about 40 minutes) or put into a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours (I put mine into the oven for 2 hours at 150C).

7. Cook Pasta & Serve

Boil pasta according to package instructions. Toss with the Bolognese sauce, top with Parmesan cheese, and serve hot!

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Expert Tips for the Perfect Bolognese

✅ Use high-quality tomatoes – San Marzano tomatoes add the best flavor (here in the UK the best I have found are Mutti). ✅ Let it simmer for a longer, slower period of time – This develops deep, rich flavors. ✅ Pair with the right pasta – Bolognese is best with tagliatelle or pappardelle.

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FAQ: Common Questions About Bolognese

Q: Can I freeze Bolognese sauce? A: Yes! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I make Bolognese without wine? A: Absolutely! Just substitute with beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar.

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