Bolognese Penne

Penne Bolognese: An Italian Delicacy at Home

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the savory world of pasta! Today, I will teach you how to prepare a recipe for Penne Bolognese, a dish that combines tradition with exquisite taste. This recipe is simple, but the result will surely impress your family or friends. So, get ready to transform simple ingredients into a meal full of flavor and warmth!

What you need to know about Penne Bolognese

This recipe has its origins in the Italian regions, being a dish that has gained popularity worldwide. With a rich meat and tomato sauce combined with penne, this dish is perfect for a weekend dinner or to impress guests. The nutritional benefits are significant: the meat provides essential proteins, while the tomato sauce brings an important supply of vitamins and antioxidants.

Necessary ingredients

- 500 g ground meat (a mix of beef and pork for a rich taste)
- 1 box of penne (about 400 g)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 beef stock cube
- 1/2 cup of dry red wine
- 400 g tomato sauce (preferably a high-quality one)
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme (or fresh, if you have it on hand)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing

Preparation instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. Dice the onion into small cubes; this will help with even caramelization. Choose quality ground meat; the mix of beef and pork will provide a richer flavor.

2. Sauté the onion: In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes translucent and starts to brown. This step is essential for adding a flavorful base to the sauce.

3. Add the meat: Add the ground meat to the skillet, stirring constantly to break it into small pieces. Let the meat cook for 5-10 minutes until it is well cooked and takes on a nice brown color. This step is important for intensifying the flavors.

4. Incorporate the tomato sauce: Once the meat is cooked, add the tomato sauce and mix well. Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer on low heat for 40 minutes. This will allow the flavors to develop and meld together.

5. Add the wine and spices: After 40 minutes, add the beef stock cube, wine, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The wine will add depth of flavor to the sauce, so don’t skip this step!

6. Cook the pasta: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Cook the penne according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, but reserve a little cooking water in case you want to thin out the sauce.

7. Combine the pasta and sauce: In a large bowl, mix the pasta with the Bolognese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water, stirring until you achieve the desired consistency. This step will help to perfectly blend the flavors.

8. Serve: Serve the Penne Bolognese hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and, if desired, fresh basil leaves. A fresh arugula salad or a glass of red wine will pair perfectly with this dish.

Useful tips and tricks

- Choosing the wine: Use a wine that you would be willing to drink. This will influence the final taste of the sauce!
- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different types of meat, such as turkey or chicken, or you can add vegetables like carrots or celery for an even richer sauce.
- Storing leftovers: Penne Bolognese keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little water if needed.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta is an excellent and healthier option, providing a higher fiber content.
2. Can I make the sauce in advance? Absolutely! The Bolognese sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. It’s even tastier the next day!
3. How can I make the sauce spicier? Add chili flakes or sriracha sauce during cooking, adjusting the amount to your taste preferences.

Nutrition and calories

A serving of Penne Bolognese contains approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It offers a good balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, making it an excellent choice for a nourishing meal.

Now that you have gone through this Penne Bolognese recipe, you are ready to bring a touch of Italy into your kitchen. Enjoy every bite and cherish the time spent around the table, sharing wonderful moments with your loved ones! Bon appétit!