Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsBottiglia Cucina & EnotecaRigatoni Bolognese Recipe

Rigatoni Bolognese Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves4

Beef, pork, San Marzano tomatoes

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Bolognese Sauce

Garnish

Method

Pasta Preparation

  1. 1

    Cook the Rigatoni

    In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

  2. 2

    Drain and Set Aside

    Once cooked, drain the rigatoni and set aside. Do not rinse, as you want the starch to help the sauce adhere.

Bolognese Sauce Preparation

  1. 3

    Prepare the Vegetables

    Finely chop the onion, carrot, and celery. Mince the garlic cloves.

  2. 4

    Brown the Meat

    In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and pork, cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks.

  3. 5

    Sauté the Vegetables

    Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

  4. 6

    Add Garlic and Wine

    Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Allow it to simmer for 3-4 minutes until the wine reduces slightly.

  5. 7

    Incorporate Tomatoes and Seasonings

    Add the San Marzano tomatoes (crushed), salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.

  6. 8

    Simmer the Sauce

    Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water.

  7. 9

    Finish with Milk

    Pour in the milk and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. This will create a creamier texture and enhance the sauce's flavor.

Assembly

  1. 10

    Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Once the sauce is ready, add the drained rigatoni to the skillet with the Bolognese sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.

  2. 11

    Serve the Dish

    Divide the rigatoni Bolognese onto plates. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

  3. 12

    Enjoy!

    Serve hot and enjoy your delicious rigatoni Bolognese!

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