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## **Instructions**
### **Step 1: Make the Bolognese Sauce**
1. Heat **olive oil** in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the **chopped onion** and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in **garlic, carrots, and celery**, cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Add the **ground meat** (beef, pork, or a mixture) and cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon.
5. Pour in the **red wine** (if using), and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the wine reduces slightly.
6. Stir in **crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, milk or cream, oregano, basil, salt,** and **pepper**.
7. Add a **bay leaf** (if using) and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for at least **45 minutes to 1 hour**, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
### **Step 2: Cook the Penne**
1. While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the **penne pasta** and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 9-11 minutes).
3. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water to add to the sauce if needed.
### **Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce**
1. Add the cooked **penne** to the Bolognese sauce and stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
### **Step 4: Serve**
1. Divide the **Penne Bolognese** into bowls.
2. Top with freshly grated **Parmesan cheese** and serve immediately.
## **Tips for the Best Penne Bolognese**
🍝 **Simmer the Sauce for Flavor** – The longer the Bolognese sauce cooks, the better the flavor. Don’t rush the process.
🧀 **Use Fresh Parmesan** – Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a burst of flavor that pre-grated cheese can’t match.
🍅 **Mix Meat for Depth** – Using a combination of beef and pork provides more complex flavor, but feel free to use just one type of meat.
🥄 **Stir Occasionally** – Be sure to stir the sauce now and then to prevent it from sticking to the pan and ensure even cooking.
## **Final Thoughts**
This **Penne Bolognese** is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta with a rich, flavorful meat sauce. It’s a great way to feed a crowd, impress guests, or just enjoy a comforting meal at home. With its deep, savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
What’s your favorite pasta dish? Let’s talk about your go-to comfort foods! 🍝🍷
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