Weeknight Bolognese

Name: Weeknight Bolognese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef or turkey; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

November 8, 2025

Updated:

November 8, 2025

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Weeknight Bolognese is the perfect dish for busy evenings when you crave a comforting and hearty meal. This recipe combines ground meat, rich tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, resulting in a sauce that’s packed with flavor. It’s versatile enough for pasta, lasagna, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. With its quick prep time and delicious taste, Weeknight Bolognese is sure to become a family favorite suitable for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This Weeknight Bolognese comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Rich Flavor: The combination of savory meat and fresh herbs creates a deep flavor profile that elevates any meal.
Versatile Dish: Serve it over spaghetti, use it in lasagna, or enjoy it on its own; the options are endless!
Family-Friendly: Kids love this dish! It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without them noticing.
Make Ahead: You can prepare this sauce in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. For this Weeknight Bolognese recipe, ensure you have everything ready before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Provides ample space for browning meat and simmering sauce evenly.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Weeknight Bolognese

Step 1: Cook the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef or turkey.
2. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
3. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet:
– Cook until onions are translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
– Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in tomato paste:
– Add dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
– Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Reduce heat to low:
– Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15 minutes.
– Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Prepare for Serving

Once the sauce has thickened:
– Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
– Serve hot over your choice of pasta or use as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Weeknight Bolognese!

How to Serve Weeknight Bolognese

Serving Weeknight Bolognese can be a delightful experience for both you and your guests. The rich flavors of the sauce complement various dishes, making it versatile for any occasion.

Classic Pasta

Serve your Bolognese over al dente spaghetti or fettuccine for a traditional meal.

Garlic Bread

Crisp garlic bread pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Fresh Salad

A light salad with mixed greens adds freshness and balances the richness of the Bolognese.

Grated Parmesan

Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added layer of flavor and creaminess.

Wine Pairing

A glass of red wine, such as Chianti, enhances the meal and complements the meat sauce beautifully.

Homemade Meatballs

Consider adding homemade meatballs alongside your Bolognese for an extra hearty dish.

How to Perfect Weeknight Bolognese

Perfecting your Weeknight Bolognese takes a little practice but is well worth it. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes bring vibrant flavors that enhance the overall dish.
Brown the meat well: Ensuring the meat is browned properly adds depth and richness to your sauce.
Simmer slowly: Allowing your sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes melds the flavors beautifully.
Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go, and don’t hesitate to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs based on your preference.
Add a splash of milk: Incorporating a bit of milk towards the end creates a creamier texture without overpowering the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Weeknight Bolognese

To round out your meal, consider serving these delicious side dishes with your Weeknight Bolognese. Each option adds its unique flavor profile and enhances the dining experience.

Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a crunchy contrast to the soft pasta.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing touch.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.
Risotto: Creamy risotto makes for a luxurious side that pairs well with hearty sauces.
Polenta: Soft polenta can be served as an alternative base, soaking up all that wonderful sauce.
Bruschetta: Crispy bruschetta topped with diced tomatoes and basil gives a flavorful appetizer option before the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Weeknight Bolognese more enjoyable and successful. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using the wrong meat: Choosing low-quality or unhealthy meats can ruin the dish. Opt for ground beef, pork, or turkey for a rich flavor.
Overcooking the sauce: Letting it simmer too long can lead to a dry texture. Aim for a balance of cooking time to keep it moist.
Neglecting seasoning: Skipping salt or herbs may leave the sauce bland. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed throughout cooking.
Forgetting the vegetables: Missing onion, garlic, or carrots can lessen flavor depth. Incorporate these veggies for added taste and nutrition.
Rushing the process: Trying to cook it too quickly won’t enhance flavors. Allow time for ingredients to blend and develop richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store your Weeknight Bolognese in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Containers: Use glass or plastic containers that seal well to maintain freshness.

Freezing Weeknight Bolognese

Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Weeknight Bolognese

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until hot throughout. Use microwave-safe containers.
Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Bolognese a weeknight meal?

This Weeknight Bolognese is quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy evenings.

Can I customize my Weeknight Bolognese?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables, use alternative meats, or even make it vegetarian by substituting lentils or mushrooms.

How long does Weeknight Bolognese last in the fridge?

It stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze Weeknight Bolognese?

Yes! It freezes well and can be kept for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy leftovers later on.

What should I serve with my Weeknight Bolognese?

Pair it with pasta, bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Final Thoughts

This Weeknight Bolognese is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. You can customize it based on your taste preferences or available ingredients. Give this recipe a try; you’ll find it’s a hearty dish perfect for any weeknight meal!