Classic Ground Beef in Rich Tomato Sauce
Introduction and Origin
This dish of ground beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce is a timeless comfort food enjoyed around the world. Rooted in Italian cuisine as Bolognese sauce, it combines simple, wholesome ingredients to create a deeply flavorful, hearty meal. Over time, variations have emerged globally, adapting to local tastes and available ingredients, making this a beloved staple in many households.
Cultural Significance
In Italy, Bolognese sauce (ragù alla bolognese) represents the essence of traditional slow-cooked meals emphasizing fresh, quality ingredients. It is typically served with tagliatelle pasta or used in lasagna. Beyond Italy, ground beef in tomato sauce has become a symbol of home cooking, family dinners, and comfort — a go-to dish that brings people together across generations.
Ingredients Quantity (Serves 4–6)
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ cup beef broth or water
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup red wine
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Optional Additions
- Chopped mushrooms for earthiness
- A splash of cream or milk for richness and a silky texture
- Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
- Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme
- A pinch of sugar to balance acidity if needed
Tips for Success
- Brown the ground beef well to develop deep flavor and texture.
- Sauté vegetables until softened for a richer base.
- Simmer sauce gently for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors; longer if time allows.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
- Adjust seasoning gradually and taste often.
- If sauce is too thick, add broth or water to loosen; if too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce.
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Increase heat to medium-high, add ground beef, and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen flavor.
- Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried herbs, salt, pepper, and optional red wine. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, cover partially, and cook for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning; add sugar if the sauce tastes too acidic.
- Serve hot over cooked pasta, rice, or use as a base for lasagna. Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese.
Description
This dish offers tender, flavorful ground beef enveloped in a thick, aromatic tomato sauce infused with herbs and simmered to perfection. The sauce is hearty but balanced with fresh vegetables and a rich, comforting taste. It’s a versatile and satisfying meal that can be served over pasta, polenta, or in a sandwich.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugars: 6g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion and Recommendation
This rich tomato sauce with tender ground beef is a classic, crowd-pleasing dish that’s both comforting and versatile. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or vegetables. Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it ideal for cooks of all levels.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To lighten this dish, use lean ground beef or ground turkey, reduce added oil, and incorporate plenty of vegetables. Swap refined pasta for whole wheat or vegetable noodles to boost fiber and nutrients. This way, you can enjoy a nourishing, satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor.