Imagine yourself in a cozy Italian trattoria, surrounded by the aroma of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. The sound of sizzling beef fills the air as you take a bite of the rich and savory braised beef bolognese. This classic Italian dish is a favorite at Olive Garden, known for its hearty flavors and comforting appeal.
Tastes Just Like the Original
This homemade version of Olive Garden’s braised beef bolognese tastes just like the original, with tender chunks of beef, a rich tomato sauce, and a hint of red wine. The secret to achieving that authentic flavor lies in the slow cooking process, allowing the flavors to meld together and develop a depth of taste that is simply irresistible.
Reasons to Make This Dish
- It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
- It’s a great way to impress guests at a dinner party.
- It’s a versatile dish that can be served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Why My Family Loves This Meal
Every time I make this braised beef bolognese for my family, it brings us together around the dinner table. The rich flavors and hearty textures never fail to satisfy our appetites and create lasting memories of shared meals and laughter.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef chuck, cubed – adds a rich and meaty flavor to the sauce
- 1 onion, diced – provides a savory base for the sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – adds a fragrant aroma to the dish
- 1 carrot, diced – adds sweetness and color to the sauce
- 1 celery stalk, diced – adds a subtle earthy flavor
- 1 can crushed tomatoes – provides a rich and tangy base for the sauce
- 1 cup beef broth – adds depth and richness to the sauce
- 1/2 cup red wine – adds a complex flavor profile to the dish
- 1 tsp dried oregano – adds a hint of earthy herbiness
- 1 tsp dried basil – adds a sweet and peppery flavor
- Salt and pepper to taste – enhances the overall flavor of the dish
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure to prep all your ingredients. Chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and measure out the rest of the ingredients. This will make the cooking process much smoother and more enjoyable.
Cutting Techniques
When cutting the vegetables for this dish, make sure to dice them into small, uniform pieces. This will ensure that they cook evenly and release their flavors into the sauce, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.
Kitchen Tools Required
- Dutch oven – for braising the beef and simmering the sauce
- Chef’s knife – for chopping vegetables and cubing the beef
- Cutting board – for prepping ingredients
- Wooden spoon – for stirring the sauce
Temperature and Timing Guide
Preheat your oven to 325°F and allow the dish to braise for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce is thick and flavorful. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Problem: Sauce is too thin.
- Solution: Simmer the sauce uncovered for a longer period of time to allow it to reduce and thicken.
- Problem: Beef is tough.
- Solution: Continue braising the beef until it is fork-tender, adding more liquid if necessary.
Instructions
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
- Brown the beef: In a Dutch oven, brown the beef cubes on all sides until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened and fragrant.
- Add the tomatoes and broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Simmer the sauce: Add the browned beef back to the pot, along with the red wine, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Serve the braised beef bolognese over pasta or rice, garnished with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutritional Value
This braised beef bolognese recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving, with 20g of protein, 15g of fat, and 30g of carbohydrates. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that will keep you full and satisfied for hours.
Tips for Restaurant Quality Results
- Use high-quality ingredients, such as grass-fed beef and organic vegetables, for the best flavor.
- Don’t rush the cooking process – let the flavors develop slowly over low heat for a rich and complex sauce.
- Don’t skimp on the red wine – it adds a depth of flavor that is essential to this dish.
Alternative Ways to Change the Recipe
If you’re looking to change up this recipe, you can try using ground beef instead of cubed beef for a quicker cooking time. You can also add mushrooms to the mix.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Ultimate Olive Garden Braised Beef Bolognese Recipe transports you to a cozy Italian trattoria right in your own home. With its rich, savory flavors and tender chunks of beef, this dish not only rivals the beloved restaurant version but also creates an opportunity for memorable family gatherings. Whether you’re serving it over pasta or enjoying it with crusty bread, this comforting meal is sure to please everyone at the table.
By taking the time to prepare each ingredient and allowing the sauce to simmer to perfection, you’ll create a culinary masterpiece that showcases the beauty of slow cooking. Remember to savor the experience—cooking is about more than just the food; it’s about the connections made around the dinner table. So gather your loved ones, share a plate of this delightful bolognese, and soak in the warmth of a shared meal.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this hearty dish that celebrates the best of Italian cuisine. Buon appetito! 🍝🍷✨
