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For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- Salt, for pasta water
How to Make Penne Bolognese
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- Heat the Olive Oil: Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and become fragrant.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break up the meat as it cooks, stirring occasionally. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the meat is browned and fully cooked.
- Deglaze with Wine: If you’re using wine, pour it into the pan and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the wine to simmer for a couple of minutes, letting it reduce slightly.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce cook gently for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, simmering it for up to 1-2 hours will deepen the flavors even further.
- Finish with Cream: Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded, stir in the milk or cream. This step adds a smooth, creamy texture to the sauce and rounds out the flavor. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Cook the Penne: While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 9-11 minutes).
- Drain the Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, reserving a small cup of pasta water for later if needed.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Toss the Penne with Bolognese Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta directly into the skillet with the Bolognese sauce. Gently toss to coat the pasta with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out and help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the Penne Bolognese in individual bowls or on a platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Penne Bolognese
- Simmer for Maximum Flavor: While you can make Bolognese sauce in as little as 30 minutes, the longer you let it simmer, the more intense the flavors will be. If you have the time, let the sauce cook for 1-2 hours for the best taste.
- Use High-Quality Meat: For a rich, flavorful sauce, use high-quality ground beef or a blend of beef and pork. The fat content adds depth to the sauce.
- Customize the Vegetables: While carrots, onions, and celery are traditional in Bolognese sauce, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to suit your taste.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, you can skip the cream or milk. For extra indulgence, you can add a little extra cream for a richer sauce.
Why You’ll Love Penne Bolognese
- Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of tender penne pasta and rich, meaty sauce makes for a filling and comforting meal.
- Versatile: You can tweak the recipe based on what ingredients you have on hand, or even make it ahead of time for easy leftovers.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or having friends over, Penne Bolognese is always a hit. It’s a dish that appeals to all ages and is sure to leave everyone satisfied.
Conclusion
Penne Bolognese is a true classic that never goes out of style. With its hearty meat sauce, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a touch of creaminess, it’s a meal that will make any day feel special. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend dinner when you want something comforting and flavorful.
So, grab your ingredients, get your kitchen filled with the delicious scent of Bolognese sauce simmering away, and enjoy the mouthwatering results with your family and friends. Buon appetito! 🍝🍷
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