Print

This classic Italian pasta dish combines al dente fusilli with a rich and flavorful Bolognese sauce. The sauce is made with a hearty mixture of ground meat, aromatic vegetables, and tomatoes, simmered to perfection. Every twirl of pasta is coated in the savory sauce, creating a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Delish!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 ounces fusilli pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 ounces ground beef or a mixture of ground beef and pork
  • 1 carrot, finely diced
  • 1 celery stalk, finely diced
  • 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Fresh basil leaves and sliced cherry tomatoes, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
  3. Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
  4. Stir in the finely diced carrot and celery, and cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
  5. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the Bolognese sauce for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  7. Serve the cooked fusilli pasta topped with the Bolognese sauce. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish as desired.

Notes

Use a mixture of ground beef and pork for a more flavorful sauce, or you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Feel free to add a splash of red wine to the sauce while simmering for an extra layer of depth. If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the Bolognese using an immersion blender or a countertop blender. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crusty garlic bread or a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. Don’t forget to grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over the pasta just before serving. Buon appetito!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition