When it comes to Italian cuisine, one name stands out as a staple: Bolognese. This rich and flavorful sauce originated in Bologna, Italy, and has since become a beloved classic around the world. The beauty of Bolognese lies in its versatility – whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option or a meat-lover’s dream, there’s a recipe to suit every taste.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering Bolognese sauce recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From classic beef and pork combinations to innovative twists with chorizo and mushrooms, each recipe has been carefully crafted to showcase the best of this iconic sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Classic Beef Bolognese with Tagliatelle
This rich and flavorful Italian dish is a staple of comfort food, made by simmering ground beef in a tomato-based sauce and serving it with freshly cooked tagliatelle pasta.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 250g tagliatelle pasta
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
5. Cook the tagliatelle pasta according to package instructions.
6. Serve the bolognese sauce over the cooked tagliatelle pasta.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Bolognese
A hearty, plant-based twist on the classic Italian pasta sauce, this Vegetarian Lentil Bolognese is a flavorful and nutritious option for meatless meals. With red lentils adding protein and texture, this recipe is perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Chorizo Bolognese
Spicy Chorizo Bolognese: A Twist on a Classic
This recipe combines the rich flavors of chorizo sausage with the traditional Italian pasta sauce, adding a spicy kick. Perfect for those looking to spice up their pasta game!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the sliced chorizo sausage and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until crispy.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti and spicy chorizo bolognese sauce; serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Bolognese
This recipe takes the classic Italian bolognese to new heights by adding a creamy twist with sautéed mushrooms. The result is a rich, velvety sauce perfect for coating pasta or serving as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add chopped onion, mushrooms, and garlic; cook until vegetables are softened.
3. Add red wine, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in butter and heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve over cooked pasta or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey Bolognese with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the rich flavors of bolognese sauce with the added nutrition and low-carb benefits of zucchini noodles. The result is a satisfying and healthy take on a classic pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 medium zucchinis
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), and oregano. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Meanwhile, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
5. Add the cooked turkey sauce to the zucchini noodles; toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce
This classic Italian-inspired recipe is perfect for a busy day, as it requires minimal effort and yields a rich, satisfying sauce. Simply add your favorite pasta and Parmesan cheese to complete the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are soft.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve the sauce over cooked pasta and top with Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pork and Beef Bolognese with Rigatoni
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of pork and beef ragù with the comforting warmth of rigatoni. This classic Italian recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lb rigatoni pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, red wine, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and combine with the bolognese sauce.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Vegan Bolognese with Walnuts and Lentils
This plant-based take on the Italian staple combines the richness of walnuts with the hearty texture of lentils, all wrapped up in a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup walnut halves
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook lentils according to package instructions until tender. Set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add walnut halves and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Stir in vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked lentils to the sauce; stir to combine.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Seafood Bolognese with Linguine
This rich and flavorful seafood bolognese pairs perfectly with linguine pasta, making it a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. With a medley of seafood, aromatic spices, and savory tomato sauce, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) linguine pasta
– 1 lb (450g) mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup (250ml) white wine
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add mixed seafood, crushed tomatoes, white wine, and dried basil. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
4. Toss cooked linguine pasta with the seafood bolognese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Bolognese with Spaghetti
Classic Chicken Bolognese with Spaghetti Recipe
A hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, rich tomato sauce, and al dente spaghetti for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add tomato sauce, white wine (if using), dried basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until cooked through, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve chicken Bolognese with spaghetti, reserving some pasta water if needed to adjust sauce consistency. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bolognese Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers. A rich Bolognese sauce adds depth and excitement to the classic bell pepper filling.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Bolognese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in Bolognese sauce, cooked rice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and top with a lid or foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Bolognese Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce
Classic Bolognese Lasagna with Creamy Béchamel Sauce
This iconic Italian dish combines rich flavors and textures, featuring ground beef and tomato sauce layered between tender pasta sheets, topped with a velvety Béchamel sauce. A comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup Béchamel sauce (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. Assemble lasagna by spreading meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of cooked lasagna noodles, then Béchamel sauce. Repeat for 3-4 layers, finishing with a layer of Béchamel on top.
7. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove cover and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– Salt to taste
Combine butter and flour in a medium saucepan, whisking smooth. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer over medium heat until thickened.
Gluten-Free Bolognese with Rice Pasta
This classic Italian dish gets a gluten-free twist by using rice pasta, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions. The slow-cooked bolognese sauce is packed with flavor from ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup rice pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine cooked rice pasta and bolognese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bolognese Pizza with Fresh Basil
A classic combination of rich flavors and textures, this Bolognese pizza is a perfect blend of savory meat sauce and fresh basil leaves. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering pie that’s sure to satisfy any pizza craving.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup bolognese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the bolognese sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese slices and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Sprinkle garlic and basil leaves evenly over the pizza.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bolognese Arancini with Mozzarella
Discover the perfect fusion of flavors and textures with this creative take on traditional arancini. These crispy, cheesy rice balls filled with rich bolognese sauce and melted mozzarella will become your new favorite snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Arborio rice
– 1 cup bolognese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, bolognese sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
5. Dip each ball into the beaten egg and then roll in breadcrumbs to coat.
6. Place the arancini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each rice ball.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bolognese Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Bolognese sauce with the comforting warmth of shepherd’s pie, topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Bolognese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, Bolognese sauce, peas and carrots, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with milk and butter.
5. Transfer meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bolognese Gnocchi Bake
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this creamy, cheesy, and satisfying Bolognese Gnocchi Bake. This recipe combines soft gnocchi with a rich meat-based tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen gnocchi
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked gnocchi, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Top with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Bolognese-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this savory twist on traditional stuffed mushrooms. Tender portobellos are filled with a rich and meaty bolognese sauce, then baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms
– 1 cup bolognese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Clean and stem the mushrooms.
3. In a small bowl, mix together bolognese sauce and olive oil.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the bolognese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four caps.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the filling.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking for new twists on the classic Bolognese sauce recipe? You’re in luck! This article brings you 18 delicious variations to spice up your pasta game. From classic beef and pork combinations to vegetarian, vegan, and seafood options, there’s something for everyone. Try adding spicy chorizo or creamy mushrooms to give your dish a boost, or go gluten-free with rice pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for lasagna, pizza, stuffed peppers, or even shepherd’s pie, these Bolognese recipes will satisfy your cravings.