Macaroni Bolognese combines the rich flavors of traditional Bolognese sauce with the comforting simplicity of macaroni pasta. This hearty and satisfying dish is a favorite in many households, offering a perfect balance of meaty sauce, tender pasta, and savory Parmesan cheese. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to create your own delicious Macaroni Bolognese from scratch, with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips along the way.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces macaroni pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 pound ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Large pot for cooking pasta
- Large skillet or saucepan for sauce
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander
Recipe Directions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- Prepare the Bolognese Sauce:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the Meat:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the Tomato Paste and Spices:
- Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil, and cook for another 2 minutes to toast the spices and tomato paste.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef or vegetable broth. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, add the cooked macaroni pasta to the skillet with the Bolognese sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Divide the Macaroni Bolognese among serving plates or bowls. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot.
Tips for Success:
- Meat Selection: Use a combination of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor, or substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Vegetable Fineness: Finely chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to ensure they cook down and integrate well into the sauce.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread on the side for dipping into the delicious sauce.
- Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette for a complete meal.
- Wine: Enjoy with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, to complement the rich flavors of the Bolognese sauce.
Conclusion:
Macaroni Bolognese is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its hearty meat sauce and tender pasta, it’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Call to Action: Ready to enjoy a delicious bowl of Macaroni Bolognese? Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more tasty recipes and cooking inspiration. Buon appetito!