What’s the difference between ragù and bolognese?

"Ragù" is a general term for a meat-based sauce, and bolognese is a specific type of ragù containing both ground beef and pancetta that originated in Bologna, Italy. While all bolognese is ragù, not all ragù is bolognese.

What to serve with ragù alla bolognese?

It's traditionally served with pasta, often tagliatelle. However, you can use spaghetti, fettuccine, or any other pasta you prefer. It would also be tasty served over zoodles (zucchini noodles), creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, a topping for baked potatoes, or even rice.

Can I freeze bolognese sauce?

Absolutely! Bolognese sauce freezes beautifully and makes a great go-to meal for busy days. Just let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight bag or container, and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating on the stove.

Can I make bolognese sauce ahead of time?

You sure can! Bolognese sauce actually tastes better after it sits for a day or two, as the flavors have more time to develop.

Easy Ragù Alla Bolognese

Description

Flavorful and comforting, this hearty bolognese sauce comes together in a flash and is gone almost as quickly when served to hungry appetites. This rich, meaty sauce is quick and easy, unlike other classic bolognese recipes that call for several hours of simmering.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped (roughly 1/2 cup or 60 grams)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 celery stick, finely chopped (roughly 1/2 cup or 60 grams)
1 medium-sized carrot, diced (roughly 1/2 cup or 60 grams)
4 small cremini mushrooms, finely chopped (roughly 3/4 cup or 95 grams)
1 pound (16 ounces) ground beef (90% lean/10% fat)
2 ounces pancetta, diced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 25–ounce jar store-bought marinara
9 ounces gluten-free tagliatelle
Parmesan cheese, finely grated, for serving
Fresh Italian parsley and fresh basil (optional), for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Saute veggies: In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Add garlic, celery, carrot, and mushrooms, and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes.
Add meat & seasoning: Add the pancetta, ground beef, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the veggies, breaking up the ground beef as it cooks. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the ground beef is browned.
Add marinara: Pour in a jar of your favorite store-bought marinara sauce and stir to combine.
Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
Cook pasta: Meanwhile, cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until al dente or according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid.
Finish: Add pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat pasta with the sauce. If needed, add pasta cooking liquid a little at a time while tossing the pasta in the sauce, adjusting the consistency until it’s just right. Divide pasta among shallow bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan and finely chopped Italian parsley and/or basil. Enjoy!

Equipment

Large Pot

Buy Now →

Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American-Italian
Diet: Gluten Free