Delia Bolognese Recipe

Bolognese is a classic Italian sauce loved all over the world. This Delia Bolognese Recipe is easy, tasty and perfect for family dinners.

If you wonder how to make Bolognese at home, this recipe will help you. It uses simple ingredients, fresh vegetables and minced beef.

The sauce is rich, savory and full of flavor. Making it yourself is better than store-bought versions. Serve it with pasta for a comforting, homemade meal everyone will enjoy.

Why I Love Making This Delia Bolognese Recipe

I love making this Bolognese because it fills the kitchen with amazing smells. The sauce is thick, rich and comforting. Cooking it slowly lets all flavors develop.

I enjoy stirring it gently and tasting along the way. My family always asks for seconds. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when friends come over.

I feel happy serving a homemade meal. The recipe is forgiving, so even beginners can make it with confidence.

Equipment List

• Large saucepan or deep pan
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener
• Bowl for mixing ingredients

Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Delia Bolognese
• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 mins
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 mins
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Ingredients You Need for Delia Bolognese Recipe

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stick, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 500g minced beef
• 100ml red wine (optional)
• 400g canned chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato purée
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, to serve

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Chop onion, carrot and celery finely. Crush garlic. Keep all ingredients ready for cooking.

2. Heat Olive Oil

Pour oil into a large pan. Heat on medium until oil shimmers lightly.

3. Cook Vegetables

Add onion, carrot, celery and garlic. Cook gently 5–7 minutes until soft and fragrant.

4. Brown the Minced Beef

Add beef to pan. Break it with a spoon. Cook until all meat is browned evenly.

5. Add Red Wine

Pour in red wine if using. Let it simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.

6. Add Tomatoes and Tomato Purée

Stir in chopped tomatoes and tomato purée. Mix well for a rich, thick sauce.

7. Add Herbs and Seasoning

Sprinkle oregano, basil, salt and black pepper. Stir to combine flavors evenly.

8. Simmer Slowly

Reduce heat to low. Cover pan partially. Simmer for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.

9. Check Sauce Consistency

If too thick, add a splash of water. Sauce should be thick, rich, and flavorful.

10. Serve and Garnish

Serve Bolognese with cooked pasta. Sprinkle fresh parsley and grated Parmesan on top.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Add a splash of milk for creamier Bolognese.
• Use pork or mixed minced meat for deeper flavor.
• For extra sweetness, add a small pinch of sugar.
• Try fresh basil instead of dried for brighter taste.
• Leftover Bolognese freezes well for up to 3 months.

History or Fun Fact About the Dish

Bolognese sauce comes from Bologna, Italy. The traditional recipe cooks meat slowly with vegetables. Delia Smith adapted it for home cooks.

It is now a popular family-friendly dish. Served with pasta worldwide, it is one of Italy’s most famous comfort foods.

Pairings & Complementary Recipes

Serve with spaghetti, tagliatelle or penne. Add a side salad for freshness. Garlic bread or focaccia is perfect. A glass of red wine enhances flavors. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese before serving for authentic taste.

Occasion or Event Ideas

• Weeknight family dinners
• Casual lunch or dinner with friends
• Birthday or celebration meals
• Cozy winter comfort food
• Meal prep for the week

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store in airtight container in fridge 2–3 days.
• Reheat gently on stove or microwave.
• Freeze leftovers up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.
• Add a splash of water when reheating if sauce thickens.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	450 kcal
Carbs	35g
Fat	20g
Protein	30g
Sugar	6g

Health Benefits

Delia Bolognese is a balanced and healthy meal. Beef provides protein and iron. Vegetables give fiber, vitamins and minerals. Olive oil adds healthy fats. Homemade sauce avoids preservatives and extra sugar. It is nourishing and filling for the whole family.

FAQs about Delia Bolognese

Q1: Can I make this Bolognese vegetarian?
Yes, replace meat with lentils or plant-based mince. Simmer with same vegetables and herbs.

Q2: Can I use canned tomatoes only?
Yes, canned chopped tomatoes work perfectly. Tomato purée adds extra richness but is optional.

Q3: Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Absolutely. Cool completely, store in airtight container and freeze up to 3 months.

Q4: Can I make it spicy?
Yes, add a pinch of chili flakes or fresh chopped chili with garlic in step 3.

Q5: What pasta works best with this Bolognese?
Wide pasta like tagliatelle or fettuccine holds the sauce well, but spaghetti also works fine.

Final Thoughts

Delia Bolognese Recipe is easy, tasty and comforting. It is perfect for family meals or special occasions. With fresh ingredients and simple steps, anyone can make it at home.

Homemade Bolognese tastes better than store-bought sauces. Serve with pasta, sprinkle Parmesan and enjoy a rich, flavorful meal. Making this recipe brings warmth, satisfaction and smiles around the dinner table.