Classic Bolognese Sauce with Italian Sausage and Fresh Herbs Recipe

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If you’re craving a rich, hearty sauce that wraps you in warmth and comfort, this Classic Bolognese Sauce with Italian Sausage and Fresh Herbs Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining the rustic flavors of Italian sausage, tender ground beef, and fresh herbs with a luscious blend of tomato paste, cream, and savory vegetables, this sauce simmers into a melody of taste that elevates any pasta night into a memorable feast. It’s both a celebration of traditional Italian cooking and a delicious way to fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that beckon everyone to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe might seem complex, but the ingredients are wonderfully straightforward and each one plays a vital role in creating that signature depth and color typical of a proper Bolognese. From the savory Italian sausage to the fresh herbs, every component works in harmony to build layers of flavor.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: The essential fat that helps soften vegetables and meld flavors together.
• 1 large onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and body once it mellows in the pot.
• 1 cup celery (chopped): Provides a subtle, fresh crunch and earthy undertones.
• 3 medium carrots (peeled and chopped): Brings natural sweetness and vibrant color for balance.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances and intensifies all ingredients’ flavors evenly.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant medley of herbs that underscores the Italian roots.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers subtle heat and a peppery aroma.
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper: Adds a gentle kick that awakens the palate.
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds (crushed): Infuses a sweet, licorice-like nuance that complements the sausage perfectly.
• 5 sprigs fresh rosemary (chopped) or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary: Earthy and piney, rosemary lifts the sauce beautifully.
• 6 cloves garlic (smashed and minced): The aromatic backbone that gives punch to the entire dish.
• 1/2 pound mild Italian sausage: Brings richness and a hint of spice, making the sauce irresistibly meaty.
• 1/2 pound ground beef: Adds hearty texture and grounds the flavor profile.
• 1 cup white wine: Introduces acidity and depth, helping to deglaze and brighten the sauce.
• 1 cup cream: Creates a silky, luxurious mouthfeel that softens the acidity of tomatoes.
• 6-ounce can tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that thickens and enriches the sauce.
• 2 cups beef broth: Adds savory undertones and helps create the perfect sauce consistency.
• 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes: The hearty tomato base that forms the heart of this Bolognese.
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: Adds a subtle sweetness and tang that brightens the sauce’s complexity.
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of color at the end.
• 1/3 cup fresh basil (optional): Provides classic aromatic sweetness and herbal brightness.
• 1 1/2 pounds tagliatelle or pappardelle pasta (boiled in salted water, optional): The ideal pasta shapes to catch every bit of sauce.
• Freshly grated parmesan (to garnish): A nutty, salty finish that crowns the dish perfectly.

How to Make Classic Bolognese Sauce with Italian Sausage and Fresh Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Flavor Base

Start by chopping your holy trinity of onion, celery, and carrots. These veggies create the foundational flavor and texture of the sauce, so chopping the carrots finely ensures they meld seamlessly. Don’t rush this step; a good base means a rich finish.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables in Olive Oil

Heat your large pot or Dutch oven and let the olive oil coat the bottom. Add your chopped onion, celery, and carrots, letting them soften gently. This is where the sauce begins its journey to flavor depth, so sauté until the veggies are tender but not browned.

Step 3: Season It Right

Sprinkle in kosher salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper, crushed red pepper, and freshly crushed fennel seeds. If you’re going the dried rosemary route, add it now. These spices start building the sauce’s signature aroma and flavor complexity early on.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables Together

Give the veggies and spices about five minutes to mingle and soften further. This marriage of flavors is what sets this Bolognese apart and makes it so irresistible.

Step 5: Add Fresh Rosemary and Garlic

Finely chop fresh rosemary and prepare the garlic by crushing then mincing it. Stir these fragrant herbs into the pan with plenty of oil so they don’t burn, cooking until you can smell their beautiful aroma filling the kitchen.

Step 6: Brown the Italian Sausage and Ground Beef

Add both meats to the pot, breaking them up with a wooden spoon. Cook thoroughly until no pink remains—this step builds a hearty base, infusing the sauce with that irresistible meaty richness.

Step 7: Deglaze and Enrich with Wine, Cream, and Tomato Paste

Pour in the white wine, cream, and then stir in the tomato paste. Allow it to simmer and thicken for 5 to 10 minutes as the alcohol cooks off and the ingredients meld into a thick, luscious sauce.

Step 8: Add Broth, Tomatoes, and Vinegar to Simmer

Time to deepen the flavor further: stir in beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and balsamic vinegar. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Patience here is key, as it allows the flavors to marry slowly, building that rich texture we love.

Step 9: Simmer Low and Slow

Let the sauce bubble gently for at least one hour, ideally longer if you have the time. If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit more broth to keep the perfect consistency. The longer cooking time intensifies the taste, making each bite truly special.

Step 10: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Just before serving, fold in chopped fresh parsley and basil. These fresh herbs brighten the sauce and add a lovely herbal note that lifts the richness magnificently.

How to Serve Classic Bolognese Sauce with Italian Sausage and Fresh Herbs Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly grated parmesan is a no-brainer here, melting beautifully into the warm sauce. Scatter a little extra fresh basil or parsley on top for that pop of color and freshness that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This saucy delight pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with olive oil and lemon, or some crusty bread perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce. Roasted seasonal vegetables can also add a lovely contrast in texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this Bolognese over creamy polenta or even roasted spaghetti squash for a twist on the traditional pasta. For a cozy brunch, try a baked pasta bake layered with cheese and extra sauce for a crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the sauce cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making the next day even better.

Freezing

This Classic Bolognese Sauce with Italian Sausage and Fresh Herbs Recipe freezes like a dream. Portion it into individual containers or freezer bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. It stays good for up to three months and is perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Reheating

Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to that perfect, silky consistency.

FAQs

Can I use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild?

Absolutely! Using spicy Italian sausage will add a wonderful kick to this recipe, making the sauce more vibrant and exciting. Adjust the crushed red pepper accordingly if you want to balance the heat.

Is it necessary to add cream in Bolognese?

The cream adds a luxurious, smooth texture that complements the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. While traditional recipes vary, including cream softens the sauce and gives it that signature velvety finish.

Can I prepare this sauce in advance?

Yes! The flavors actually improve after resting, so making the sauce a day ahead is perfect. Just reheat gently before serving and enjoy how the taste deepens overnight.

What pasta works best with this sauce?

Tagliatelle and pappardelle are ideal because their wide ribbons hold the chunky, meaty sauce incredibly well. If you can’t find these, other flat noodles or even rigatoni can work wonderfully for catching all that flavor.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can swap the meats for plant-based sausage alternatives or cooked lentils and mushrooms for a hearty, meaty texture without the meat. Remember to keep the rich seasonings and broth to maintain the bold flavors.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Classic Bolognese Sauce with Italian Sausage and Fresh Herbs Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that brings comfort, joy, and a bit of Italian soul to your table no matter the occasion. Take your time letting it simmer, savor every aromatic whiff, and then dive into a bowl of pure, saucy happiness. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a cherished staple in your kitchen.

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