Save This Italian classic features a slow-cooked beef sauce simmered with onion, carrot, celery, garlic, white wine, and tomatoes to develop deep, rich flavors. Milk and a touch of nutmeg add subtle creaminess while fresh herbs enhance the aroma. The sauce is combined with silky tagliatelle cooked al dente, creating a comforting, hearty dish perfect for any occasion. Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley garnish add a savory finish. Ideal for pairing with full-bodied red wines and simple sides.
The first time I made this Beef Bolognese with Tagliatelle, it instantly became a comforting classic in my kitchen. The rich aroma of slow-cooked beef mingling with tomatoes fills the whole house and feels like a warm Italian hug after a long day.
I remember the first time unexpected guests showed up and I whipped up this Bolognese in less than two hours. Their surprised smiles when they tasted something so hearty and rich homemade made the moment unforgettable.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (80% lean): This level of leanness gives you a juicy but not greasy sauce, balancing flavor and texture perfectly
- Olive oil: Use good quality extra virgin for that subtle fruity note that carries the aromatics beautifully
- Onion, carrots, celery: The holy trinity of Italian cooking providing a sweet base and depth
- Whole milk: Adding creaminess that rounds out the acidic tomatoes
- Canned whole tomatoes, crushed by hand: Hand crushing keeps the texture rustic and fresh
- Dry white wine: Adds acidity and complexity so don't skip it—even a splash makes a big difference
- Tagliatelle: Its flat ribbons hold onto the sauce like a dream
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated to finish for that umami kicker
- Herbs and seasonings: Oregano, bay leaf, black pepper, salt, and a pinch of nutmeg to gently warm every bite
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Chop all your vegetables finely and gather ingredients so the cooking flow feels like a smooth dance; the fresh smell of garlic hitting the pan will get you excited.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Gently cook onion, carrot, celery, and garlic in olive oil until softened; the kitchen will fill with a sweet aromatic promise.
- Brown the Beef:
- Turn up the heat and add your ground beef; listen to the sizzle and watch the meat change color, breaking it up so it cooks evenly.
- Add Tomato Paste and Wine:
- Stir in tomato paste for richness then pour in white wine scraping the browned bits for flavor; let it bubble and reduce until thick and fragrant.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Add tomatoes, herbs, and seasonings, then lower heat and let everything marry for an hour. It smells like a traditional Italian home.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Stir in milk and nutmeg, then simmer uncovered to thicken and deepen while you prepare pasta.
- Cook Tagliatelle:
- Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente; reserve some pasta water for sauce magic.
- Toss Together:
- Drain and add pasta to sauce, tossing with reserved water until every strand is glossy and infused with flavor.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Plate the pasta topped with generous Parmesan and fresh basil or parsley to brighten each bite.
Save This dish has become more than just a meal; it's a ritual for gathering friends and family around the table to savor comfort and connection, especially on chilly evenings.
Keeping It Fresh
The sauce also freezes beautifully—just cool completely before portioning into airtight containers so you can enjoy a homemade Italian classic anytime without the long cook.
When You're Missing Something
If you don't have tagliatelle, pappardelle or fettuccine makes a great substitute, capturing the sauce just as well. Avoid thinner pastas that get overwhelmed.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
Pair this hearty dish with a simple green salad dressed in lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness. Garlic bread is a classic for mopping sauce that no one will refuse.
- Always keep some extra Parmesan ready on the table—it invites everyone to personalize their plate
- A splash of good balsamic vinegar on the salad can brighten the meal unexpectedly
- Leftovers make killer pasta bakes the next day—don't let any go to waste
Save Thanks for cooking along with me—may this recipe bring as much joy and comfort to your table as it has to mine. Buon appetito!
Common Questions
- → How long should the beef sauce simmer?
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Simmer the sauce gently for about 1 hour to allow the flavors to deepen and the beef to become tender.
- → Can I substitute tagliatelle with other pasta types?
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Yes, ribbons like fettuccine or pappardelle work well due to their broad shape, capturing the sauce nicely.
- → Why is milk added to the sauce?
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Milk softens the acidity of the tomatoes and enriches the sauce with a subtle creaminess.
- → What is the purpose of the reserved pasta water?
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Adding reserved pasta water helps to loosen and bind the sauce, creating a silkier texture that clings to the pasta.
- → Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
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Yes, the sauce often tastes better the next day as flavors continue to meld; reheat gently before serving.
- → Are there any suggested wine pairings?
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Full-bodied red wines such as Chianti or Sangiovese complement the richness and herbs in the sauce beautifully.
