Last week was really cold here, and one day I had the idea of using ground beef for some hamburgers. But the mere thought of lighting the grill and being outside was dreadful, at least for me.
So I made this simple meat sauce, or Bolognese, a beef sauce for pasta. Nothing fancy, but very tasty and homey.
Table of Contents
How to make Meat sauce?
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4
Category: Beef
Cuisine: Chilean
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oil | 1 tablespoon | — |
| Ground meat | 500 grams | — |
| Onion | 1 | Finely chopped |
| Carrots | 2 | Diced |
| Red bell pepper | ½ | Chopped, seeds removed (optional) |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (~400 grams) | — |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (225 grams) | — |
| Oregano or bay leaf | Few sprigs / 1 leaf | Fresh or dried |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | — |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon | — |
Instructions
- In a large frying pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. When hot, add the meat and spread it out with a spoon to cover the entire pan. Season with salt and pepper, let it brown for 3–5 minutes, turn it over, and brown the other side for another 3–5 minutes.
- Add the finely chopped onion, carrots, and paprika (if using). Stir and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, then add the oregano or bay leaf.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning. Let it cook covered over low heat for 5–10 minutes or more. Add the butter and stir very well.
- Serve over noodles or rice.
Video Guide 🎥
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 390 |
| Sugar | 8.3 g |
| Sodium | 922.8 mg |
| Fat | 25.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15.1 g |
| Fiber | 3.3 g |
| Protein | 25.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 92.6 mg |
Benefits of Meat Sauce
- Rich in protein from ground beef, helping support muscle strength
- Contains essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins
- A comforting and filling meal, perfect for cold days
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Pairs well with pasta, rice, or noodles, making it versatile
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can replace ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even a mix for a lighter version.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. This meat sauce often tastes even better the next day after the flavors settle.
Can I freeze meat sauce?
Yes, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2–3 months.
What can I serve with meat sauce?
It goes well with pasta, rice, spaghetti, or even mashed potatoes.
How can I make it thicker?
Let it simmer longer without a lid, or reduce the liquid slightly for a thicker texture.
Conclusion
This simple meat sauce is the kind of recipe that brings warmth and comfort, especially on cold days. With basic ingredients and easy steps, you get a flavorful and satisfying meal without much effort. Whether served over pasta or rice, it’s a reliable, home-style dish you can make again and again.
