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Simple Weeknight Bolognese Quick and Tasty Recipe

by on April 8, 2025

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Looking for a quick and tasty dinner idea? My Simple Weeknight Bolognese is just what you need! This easy recipe packs flavor without the fuss, making it perfect for busy evenings. You’ll find fresh ingredients and simple steps to create a delicious meal that everyone will love. Say goodbye to takeout and embrace a home-cooked delight that’s ready in no time! Let’s dive in!

- 1 lb ground beef or turkey - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 carrot, finely diced - 1 celery stalk, finely diced - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1 tablespoon tomato paste - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving - 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice When picking fresh ingredients, look for vibrant colors and firm textures. For onions, choose ones that are heavy for their size. Garlic should be plump and free from sprouts. Select carrots and celery that feel crisp and are not limp. For tomatoes, go for ones without blemishes. Fresh herbs should smell fragrant and have bright leaves. These choices will boost the flavor of your Bolognese. You can switch beef for turkey if you prefer a leaner dish. Ground chicken works well too. If you want a vegetarian option, use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat. For the pasta, any type works, such as penne or fettuccine. You can even use zoodles if you want a low-carb meal. Don't hesitate to get creative! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by gathering your vegetables. You need one medium onion, two cloves of garlic, one carrot, and one celery stalk. Chop the onion finely. Dice the carrot and celery into small pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about five minutes until the veggies are soft. The onion should look clear. Raise the heat to medium-high. Now, add one pound of ground beef or turkey. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Stir until the meat is browned, which takes about five to seven minutes. Make sure there’s no pink left in the meat. This step adds flavor and texture to the sauce. Once the meat is browned, add one tablespoon of tomato paste. Stir it in well. Next, pour in one can of crushed tomatoes. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of dried oregano, one teaspoon of dried basil, and half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking. While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of spaghetti or your favorite pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. After the sauce thickens, taste it. Adjust the seasoning if needed. If it seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth. To serve, place a portion of the Bolognese sauce over the pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. For a nice look, twirl the spaghetti into nests on each plate. Enjoy your meal! To save time while making Bolognese, prep your veggies first. Chop the onion, carrot, and celery before cooking. This way, you can add them quickly when the oil is hot. Use a microwave to soften the onion and garlic for one minute. This speeds up cooking time. Cook the pasta while the sauce simmers. It saves you from washing extra pots. You can boost flavor with just a few tricks. Start with fresh herbs if possible and add them at the end for freshness. A splash of red wine can add depth to your sauce. If you have time, let the sauce simmer longer. This builds a richer taste. A sprinkle of sugar can balance acidity from tomatoes. One common mistake is overcooking the garlic. It can turn bitter if burnt. Also, don’t skip the salt. It enhances all the flavors. Avoid cooking the sauce too fast; it needs time to meld. Finally, remember to taste your sauce before serving. Adjust the seasoning to make it perfect. Pro Tips Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil can elevate the flavor of your Bolognese. Add it at the end for a burst of freshness. Meat Options: Experiment with different ground meats like pork or chicken for a unique twist on the classic recipe. Add a Splash of Wine: Incorporating red wine into the sauce while it simmers can deepen the flavor profile significantly. Batch Cooking: Make a larger batch and freeze portions for quick weeknight dinners. Just reheat and serve! {{image_4}} To make a vegetarian or vegan Bolognese, swap the meat for lentils or mushrooms. Both options add great texture and flavor. Use 1 cup of cooked lentils or 2 cups of finely chopped mushrooms. The rest of the recipe stays the same. You still get that rich taste without meat. Use vegetable broth instead of water for extra depth. Bolognese pairs well with many pasta types. Spaghetti is classic, but try fettuccine or rigatoni for a twist. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can work too. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times. Each shape holds the sauce differently, giving a unique experience. If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes. Start with 1 teaspoon for a punch. You can also add a splash of red wine for depth. A bit of balsamic vinegar adds sweetness and tang. For a fresh taste, stir in chopped spinach or kale at the end. These small changes can elevate your Bolognese to new heights. After enjoying your meal, store leftover Bolognese in an airtight container. Let it cool down first to avoid steaming. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. When reheating Bolognese, do it gently. Use a saucepan over low heat. Stir often to avoid sticking or burning. If it looks dry, add a splash of water or broth. You can also microwave it in short bursts. Cover it to keep moisture in. To freeze Bolognese, let it cool completely before packing. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date. It can last up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it as described above. Simple Weeknight Bolognese lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Yes, you can make this sauce ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit improves the flavor. Just cool it and store in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Bolognese pairs well with various sides. Here are some ideas: - Garlic bread - Side salad - Steamed vegetables - Grilled zucchini These sides add color and crunch. You can use pre-made sauce. However, I recommend making the sauce from scratch. Fresh ingredients give a better taste and texture. If you use pre-made sauce, add fresh herbs for extra flavor. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options. Check the label to ensure it's certified gluten-free. The sauce is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it without worry. This blog post covered how to make a simple weeknight Bolognese. We discussed ingredient selection and easy swaps. I shared step-by-step instructions to make cooking simple and fun. You now have tips to save time and avoid common mistakes. We explored variations to suit any taste, and I provided storage advice for leftovers. In the end, cooking can be enjoyable and not overly complex. With these tips, you can create delicious meals that everyone will love. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This Bolognese sauce comes together in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
  2. Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of ground meat, vegetables, and herbs creates a rich, hearty sauce that’s full of flavor.
  3. Customizable: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey, or add in your favorite veggies to suit your taste.
  4. Kid-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients for Simple Weeknight Bolognese

– 1 lb ground beef or turkey

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 carrot, finely diced

– 1 celery stalk, finely diced

– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

– 1 tablespoon tomato paste

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

– 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice

Tips for Selecting Fresh Ingredients

When picking fresh ingredients, look for vibrant colors and firm textures. For onions, choose ones that are heavy for their size. Garlic should be plump and free from sprouts. Select carrots and celery that feel crisp and are not limp. For tomatoes, go for ones without blemishes. Fresh herbs should smell fragrant and have bright leaves. These choices will boost the flavor of your Bolognese.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch beef for turkey if you prefer a leaner dish. Ground chicken works well too. If you want a vegetarian option, use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat. For the pasta, any type works, such as penne or fettuccine. You can even use zoodles if you want a low-carb meal. Don’t hesitate to get creative!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Vegetables

Start by gathering your vegetables. You need one medium onion, two cloves of garlic, one carrot, and one celery stalk. Chop the onion finely. Dice the carrot and celery into small pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about five minutes until the veggies are soft. The onion should look clear.

Cooking the Meat

Raise the heat to medium-high. Now, add one pound of ground beef or turkey. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Stir until the meat is browned, which takes about five to seven minutes. Make sure there’s no pink left in the meat. This step adds flavor and texture to the sauce.

Combining Ingredients and Simmering the Sauce

Once the meat is browned, add one tablespoon of tomato paste. Stir it in well. Next, pour in one can of crushed tomatoes. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of dried oregano, one teaspoon of dried basil, and half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking.

Cooking the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of spaghetti or your favorite pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Serving Suggestions

After the sauce thickens, taste it. Adjust the seasoning if needed. If it seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth. To serve, place a portion of the Bolognese sauce over the pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. For a nice look, twirl the spaghetti into nests on each plate. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Time-Saving Cooking Tips

To save time while making Bolognese, prep your veggies first. Chop the onion, carrot, and celery before cooking. This way, you can add them quickly when the oil is hot. Use a microwave to soften the onion and garlic for one minute. This speeds up cooking time. Cook the pasta while the sauce simmers. It saves you from washing extra pots.

Enhancing Flavor without Extra Time

You can boost flavor with just a few tricks. Start with fresh herbs if possible and add them at the end for freshness. A splash of red wine can add depth to your sauce. If you have time, let the sauce simmer longer. This builds a richer taste. A sprinkle of sugar can balance acidity from tomatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the garlic. It can turn bitter if burnt. Also, don’t skip the salt. It enhances all the flavors. Avoid cooking the sauce too fast; it needs time to meld. Finally, remember to taste your sauce before serving. Adjust the seasoning to make it perfect.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil can elevate the flavor of your Bolognese. Add it at the end for a burst of freshness.
  2. Meat Options: Experiment with different ground meats like pork or chicken for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
  3. Add a Splash of Wine: Incorporating red wine into the sauce while it simmers can deepen the flavor profile significantly.
  4. Batch Cooking: Make a larger batch and freeze portions for quick weeknight dinners. Just reheat and serve!

Variations

Vegetarian or Vegan Simple Bolognese

To make a vegetarian or vegan Bolognese, swap the meat for lentils or mushrooms. Both options add great texture and flavor. Use 1 cup of cooked lentils or 2 cups of finely chopped mushrooms. The rest of the recipe stays the same. You still get that rich taste without meat. Use vegetable broth instead of water for extra depth.

Using Different Pasta Types

Bolognese pairs well with many pasta types. Spaghetti is classic, but try fettuccine or rigatoni for a twist. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can work too. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times. Each shape holds the sauce differently, giving a unique experience.

Spicing It Up: Adding Heat or Other Flavors

If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes. Start with 1 teaspoon for a punch. You can also add a splash of red wine for depth. A bit of balsamic vinegar adds sweetness and tang. For a fresh taste, stir in chopped spinach or kale at the end. These small changes can elevate your Bolognese to new heights.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Bolognese

After enjoying your meal, store leftover Bolognese in an airtight container. Let it cool down first to avoid steaming. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing.

Best Practices for Reheating

When reheating Bolognese, do it gently. Use a saucepan over low heat. Stir often to avoid sticking or burning. If it looks dry, add a splash of water or broth. You can also microwave it in short bursts. Cover it to keep moisture in.

Freezing Tips for Longer Storage

To freeze Bolognese, let it cool completely before packing. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date. It can last up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it as described above.

FAQs

How long does Simple Weeknight Bolognese last in the fridge?

Simple Weeknight Bolognese lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this sauce ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit improves the flavor. Just cool it and store in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to three months.

What can I serve with Bolognese?

Bolognese pairs well with various sides. Here are some ideas:

– Garlic bread

– Side salad

– Steamed vegetables

– Grilled zucchini

These sides add color and crunch.

Can I use pre-made sauce instead?

You can use pre-made sauce. However, I recommend making the sauce from scratch. Fresh ingredients give a better taste and texture. If you use pre-made sauce, add fresh herbs for extra flavor.

How to make it gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options. Check the label to ensure it’s certified gluten-free. The sauce is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it without worry.

This blog post covered how to make a simple weeknight Bolognese. We discussed ingredient selection and easy swaps. I shared step-by-step instructions to make cooking simple and fun. You now have tips to save time and avoid common mistakes. We explored variations to suit any taste, and I provided storage advice for leftovers.

In the end, cooking can be enjoyable and not overly complex. With these tips, you can create delicious meals that everyone will love. Enjoy your time in the kitche

- 1 lb ground beef or turkey - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 carrot, finely diced - 1 celery stalk, finely diced - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1 tablespoon tomato paste - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving - 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice When picking fresh ingredients, look for vibrant colors and firm textures. For onions, choose ones that are heavy for their size. Garlic should be plump and free from sprouts. Select carrots and celery that feel crisp and are not limp. For tomatoes, go for ones without blemishes. Fresh herbs should smell fragrant and have bright leaves. These choices will boost the flavor of your Bolognese. You can switch beef for turkey if you prefer a leaner dish. Ground chicken works well too. If you want a vegetarian option, use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat. For the pasta, any type works, such as penne or fettuccine. You can even use zoodles if you want a low-carb meal. Don't hesitate to get creative! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by gathering your vegetables. You need one medium onion, two cloves of garlic, one carrot, and one celery stalk. Chop the onion finely. Dice the carrot and celery into small pieces. This helps them cook evenly. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about five minutes until the veggies are soft. The onion should look clear. Raise the heat to medium-high. Now, add one pound of ground beef or turkey. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Stir until the meat is browned, which takes about five to seven minutes. Make sure there’s no pink left in the meat. This step adds flavor and texture to the sauce. Once the meat is browned, add one tablespoon of tomato paste. Stir it in well. Next, pour in one can of crushed tomatoes. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of dried oregano, one teaspoon of dried basil, and half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you want some heat. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking. While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of spaghetti or your favorite pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. After the sauce thickens, taste it. Adjust the seasoning if needed. If it seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth. To serve, place a portion of the Bolognese sauce over the pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. For a nice look, twirl the spaghetti into nests on each plate. Enjoy your meal! To save time while making Bolognese, prep your veggies first. Chop the onion, carrot, and celery before cooking. This way, you can add them quickly when the oil is hot. Use a microwave to soften the onion and garlic for one minute. This speeds up cooking time. Cook the pasta while the sauce simmers. It saves you from washing extra pots. You can boost flavor with just a few tricks. Start with fresh herbs if possible and add them at the end for freshness. A splash of red wine can add depth to your sauce. If you have time, let the sauce simmer longer. This builds a richer taste. A sprinkle of sugar can balance acidity from tomatoes. One common mistake is overcooking the garlic. It can turn bitter if burnt. Also, don’t skip the salt. It enhances all the flavors. Avoid cooking the sauce too fast; it needs time to meld. Finally, remember to taste your sauce before serving. Adjust the seasoning to make it perfect. Pro Tips Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil can elevate the flavor of your Bolognese. Add it at the end for a burst of freshness. Meat Options: Experiment with different ground meats like pork or chicken for a unique twist on the classic recipe. Add a Splash of Wine: Incorporating red wine into the sauce while it simmers can deepen the flavor profile significantly. Batch Cooking: Make a larger batch and freeze portions for quick weeknight dinners. Just reheat and serve! {{image_4}} To make a vegetarian or vegan Bolognese, swap the meat for lentils or mushrooms. Both options add great texture and flavor. Use 1 cup of cooked lentils or 2 cups of finely chopped mushrooms. The rest of the recipe stays the same. You still get that rich taste without meat. Use vegetable broth instead of water for extra depth. Bolognese pairs well with many pasta types. Spaghetti is classic, but try fettuccine or rigatoni for a twist. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can work too. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times. Each shape holds the sauce differently, giving a unique experience. If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes. Start with 1 teaspoon for a punch. You can also add a splash of red wine for depth. A bit of balsamic vinegar adds sweetness and tang. For a fresh taste, stir in chopped spinach or kale at the end. These small changes can elevate your Bolognese to new heights. After enjoying your meal, store leftover Bolognese in an airtight container. Let it cool down first to avoid steaming. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. When reheating Bolognese, do it gently. Use a saucepan over low heat. Stir often to avoid sticking or burning. If it looks dry, add a splash of water or broth. You can also microwave it in short bursts. Cover it to keep moisture in. To freeze Bolognese, let it cool completely before packing. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date. It can last up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it as described above. Simple Weeknight Bolognese lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Yes, you can make this sauce ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit improves the flavor. Just cool it and store in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Bolognese pairs well with various sides. Here are some ideas: - Garlic bread - Side salad - Steamed vegetables - Grilled zucchini These sides add color and crunch. You can use pre-made sauce. However, I recommend making the sauce from scratch. Fresh ingredients give a better taste and texture. If you use pre-made sauce, add fresh herbs for extra flavor. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options. Check the label to ensure it's certified gluten-free. The sauce is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it without worry. This blog post covered how to make a simple weeknight Bolognese. We discussed ingredient selection and easy swaps. I shared step-by-step instructions to make cooking simple and fun. You now have tips to save time and avoid common mistakes. We explored variations to suit any taste, and I provided storage advice for leftovers. In the end, cooking can be enjoyable and not overly complex. With these tips, you can create delicious meals that everyone will love. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!

Weeknight Bolognese Bliss

A quick and delicious Bolognese sauce served over pasta, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, finely diced
  • 1 stalk celery, finely diced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste fresh basil leaves, for garnish
  • to taste grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet or saucepan, pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium flame. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté the mixture for approximately 5 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender and the onion turns translucent.
  • Introduce the minced garlic to the pan and stir for about 1 minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn. This will infuse the oil with a delightful garlicky aroma.
  • Raise the heat to medium-high, then add the ground beef or turkey. Using a spatula, break up the meat as it cooks and brown it thoroughly, which should take around 5-7 minutes until there’s no pink remaining.
  • Once the meat is properly browned, stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste followed by the can of crushed tomatoes. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if desired), then season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  • Lower the heat to a simmer and let the sauce cook for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from adhering to the bottom of the pan and ensure even cooking.
  • While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
  • After the sauce has thickened slightly, taste and make any necessary adjustments to the seasoning. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
  • To serve, place a generous portion of the Bolognese sauce over the cooked pasta. Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves and a hearty sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Notes

For an inviting presentation, twirl the spaghetti into nests on each plate and ladle the sauce generously over the top. Finish with fresh basil and Parmesan for an elegant touch.
Keyword bolognese, pasta, quick dinner

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