Mum's Aussie Weeknight Bolognese

A bowl of Bolognese pasta garnished with fresh basil.

Mum's Aussie Weeknight Bolognese

Here's a totally non-authentic 30 minute bolognese recipe from Mum, Aussie style. This is her weeknight go-to packed with beef mince and BACON - now that's a combo we can get behind. There's also hidden veggies, because Mum always likes to keep it healthy!

Course Dinner

Cuisine Australian

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 25

Total Time 30

Servings people

Calories 774kcal

Author Wandercooks

Cost $20

Equipment

1 4.5L Stainless Steel Saucepan

Ingredients

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion chopped
2 tsp garlic finely chopped
750 g beef mince 1.65 lb
5 slices bacon diced, 150 g / 5.29 oz
60 ml red wine 2 fl oz, shiraz or cabernet work well
800 g chopped tomatoes 1.75 lb, sub with passata
1 carrot grated
1 zucchini grated
3 tbsp tomato paste
4 tbsp tomato sauce / ketchup
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
500 g pasta 1.1 lb

Metric - US Customary

Instructions

Heat the 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large frying pan over a medium high heat. Add the 1 onion and 2 tsp garlic and stir fry for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Add the 750 g beef mince and 5 slices bacon and continue to fry for 5 minutes until browned.
Pour in 60 ml red wine and cook until liquid evaporates, around 5-10 minutes. Reduce heat to a simmer.
Add the 1 carrot and 1 zucchini, frying for another minute or two and mixing well.
Now pour in the 800 g chopped tomatoes, 3 tbsp tomato paste, 4 tbsp tomato sauce / ketchup and 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Stir through until well combined and continuing to simmer on medium low for around 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, cook the 500 g pasta according to packet directions. Drain and either add to the sauce and stir through or place into serving dishes and top with the Bolognese sauce.

Video

Notes

Storage - Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days, or portion out and pop into the freezer for up to 3 months.
Leftover Bolognese - Use the sauce to make a moussaka, pasta al forno or even turn it into toasties for lunch!
Add Herbs - Add your favourite fresh herbs for an extra depth of flavour. Basil, oregano or rosemary would work really well, but they’re not essential.
Make it Smoky - Add 2 tbsp bbq sauce, 2 tsp of smoked paprika and 10 drops of liquid smoke.
Spezzatino di Manzo - If you've got leftovers from the stew, this is perfect for adding to the sauce base for extra flavour!

Nutrition