Cozy up with a warm, satisfying bowl of Bolognese sauce! This classic Italian recipe has become a staple around the world, and for good reason. Rich, meaty flavors combined with tender pasta make for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something traditional or looking to mix things up, we’ve got 18 hearty Bolognese sauce recipes to satisfy your cravings.
From classic beef-based sauces to vegetarian and vegan twists, slow cooker options, and even pizza and lasagna variations – we’ve rounded up some of the best Bolognese sauce recipes out there. Whether you’re a long-time fan of this beloved dish or just discovering its charms, get ready to fall in love with these 18 delicious variations.
Classic Beef Bolognese with Tagliatelle
Classic Beef Bolognese with Tagliatelle: A hearty and comforting Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef mince (80% lean)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and black pepper
– 12 oz tagliatelle pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the tagliatelle according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the beef mince over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
6. Serve the bolognese sauce over cooked tagliatelle pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegetarian Lentil Bolognese
This vegetarian take on the Italian staple replaces ground beef with red lentils, creating a rich and satisfying sauce. Perfect for a comforting meal or as a pasta topping.
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 dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and carrot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve over cooked pasta, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce
Transform your pasta dishes with this rich and flavorful Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce recipe, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker with all remaining ingredients. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Bolognese Sauce over pasta, spaghetti, or as a dipping sauce!
Turkey Bolognese with Zucchini Noodles
This recipe combines the rich flavors of traditional bolognese sauce with lean turkey and zucchini noodles, creating a healthier and equally delicious alternative.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated carrot
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 medium zucchinis
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and grated carrot to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
4. Meanwhile, spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
5. Combine the cooked turkey mixture with the zucchini noodles. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Chorizo Bolognese
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and spicy twist on the classic Italian dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chorizo, sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the sliced chorizo and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using red wine, add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Serve: Over pasta, garnished with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
Creamy Mushroom Bolognese
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and savory Creamy Mushroom Bolognese recipe, packed with the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the comfort of a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz spaghetti
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add beef broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer sauce for 10-12 minutes or until thickened slightly, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with reserved pasta water and creamy mushroom sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bolognese Stuffed Bell Peppers
This hearty recipe combines the classic flavors of Bolognese sauce with the sweetness of bell peppers, creating a satisfying and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Bolognese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as spaghetti or pappardelle)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
4. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked pasta, Bolognese sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
One-Pot Bolognese Pasta
This classic Italian dish is a staple for a reason – it’s rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. By cooking everything in one pot, you’ll save time and cleanup while still achieving a deeply flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the pasta to the pot and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bolognese Lasagna with Béchamel
Savor the rich flavors of Italy’s classic lasagna, featuring a hearty bolognese ragù and creamy béchamel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup béchamel sauce (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Béchamel Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks. Add onion, garlic, and crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread a layer of bolognese ragù on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
5. Spread half of the béchamel sauce over the noodles. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with the remaining béchamel sauce and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bolognese Pizza with Fresh Basil
Elevate your pizza game with this classic Italian-inspired recipe, featuring rich bolognese sauce and fragrant fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup bolognese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.
3. Spread the bolognese sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves evenly over the top.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the pizza.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bolognese Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
A staple of Italian cuisine, these meatballs are tender and flavorful, swimming in a rich tomato sauce that’s perfect for pasta, rice, or as a standalone meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat tomato sauce in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Once the meatballs are done, remove from oven and add to the tomato sauce. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Bolognese Gnocchi Bake
A comforting, satisfying dish that combines the richness of Bolognese sauce with the pillowy texture of gnocchi and a crispy golden-brown topping. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 1 cup Bolognese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or make homemade gnocchi and cook until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, Bolognese sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bolognese Risotto with Parmesan
Rich and savory, this classic Italian dish combines tender beef ragù with creamy risotto and a sprinkle of nutty Parmesan. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
2. Add ground beef; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned.
3. Add tomatoes, wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer 20 minutes.
4. Cook Arborio rice according to package instructions.
5. Combine cooked risotto and bolognese sauce in a large serving dish. Top with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bolognese-Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on classic stuffed shells. Rich Bolognese sauce fills tender jumbo pasta shells, topped with melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of parsley.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup Bolognese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned; add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and Bolognese sauce. Bring to a simmer and let cool slightly.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the Bolognese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Top shells with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Bolognese Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy and England to create a hearty, comforting casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The rich Bolognese sauce is topped with a crispy mashed potato crust, making it a satisfying meal for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
– Butter for greasing the dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
5. Boil chopped potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with milk or heavy cream.
6. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Spread the Bolognese sauce evenly, followed by the mashed potato crust.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potato is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bolognese Baked Ziti
This recipe combines the rich flavors of a traditional bolognese sauce with the comforting warmth of baked ziti. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup bolognese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Stir in marinara sauce, bolognese sauce, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Top with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bolognese Polenta Bowls
Satisfy your cravings with this rich and creamy Bolognese sauce served atop a comforting bed of polenta, all wrapped up in a satisfying bowl. This recipe combines the classic flavors of Italy with a modern twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 pound ground beef or pork
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook polenta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer sauce for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. To assemble bowls, place cooked polenta at the bottom, followed by the Bolognese sauce. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Bolognese French Bread Pizza
A twist on traditional pizza, this Bolognese French Bread Pizza combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a rustic bread. With its gooey mozzarella cheese and rich meat sauce, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.1 oz) baguette
– 1 cup Bolognese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, sliced prosciutto
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet.
3. Spread the Bolognese sauce evenly over the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the mozzarella slices on top of the sauce.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add any desired toppings (optional).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 18 hearty bolognese sauce recipes! From classic beef and pork variations to vegetarian and vegan options, there’s something for every comfort food lover. Try adding a twist with chorizo, mushrooms, or lentils, or go all out with creamy sauces and pasta combinations like lasagna and stuffed shells. Whether you’re in the mood for a slow-cooked sauce or a quick one-pot meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and warm up any meal.
