This classic Italian dish combines the delicate flavor of tortellini with a rich and hearty bolognese sauce. The tender pasta pockets are filled with a savory mixture of meat and cheese, while the sauce is packed with flavor from ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs. It’s a satisfying and comforting meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Recipe
Ingredients:
Quick Info
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 650 per serving
- Cuisine: Italian
- Course: Main Dish
- Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
For the bolognese sauce:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces/800g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (120ml) red wine
- 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the pasta:
- 1 pound (450g) fresh cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the bolognese sauce:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes or until vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, and basil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the tortellini:
- While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the tortellini according to package directions until al dente, usually about 3-5 minutes.
- Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Combine and serve:
- Gently toss the cooked tortellini with the bolognese sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve immediately, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Protein: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 8g
Tips and Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternative or finely chopped mushrooms.
- Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enjoy your homemade Classic Tortellini with Bolognese Sauce – a true taste of Italy in your own kitchen!
Mastering the Art of Classic Tortellini with Bolognese Sauce
As you savor the last bites of your homemade Classic Tortellini with Bolognese Sauce, take a moment to appreciate the culinary journey you’ve embarked upon. This dish, with its roots deeply embedded in Italian tradition, represents more than just a meal – it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and culinary craftsmanship.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. The tortellini, with its delicate folds concealing a savory filling, serves as a canvas for the robust bolognese sauce. Each spoonful tells a story of centuries-old Italian cooking techniques, passed down through generations and now recreated in your very own kitchen.
What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. While it shines as a standalone meal, it can easily be elevated for more formal occasions. Consider pairing it with a crisp Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio or a bold red like Chianti to complement the rich flavors of the bolognese. A side of garlic bread or a light arugula salad can round out the meal, creating a full Italian dining experience.
Remember, the key to perfecting this dish lies in patience and quality ingredients. Allow the bolognese sauce to simmer slowly, giving the flavors time to meld and develop. Don’t rush the process – good food, like all good things, takes time. And when it comes to ingredients, opt for fresh tortellini if available, and don’t skimp on the quality of your Parmesan cheese. A good, aged Parmigiano-Reggiano can elevate the entire dish.
Classic tortellini with bolognese sauce is a delicious and satisfying Italian dish that is perfect for any occasion. The tender pasta pockets filled with a savory mixture of meat and cheese are complemented by the rich and flavorful bolognese sauce. Enjoy!
