Lamb Bolognese Recipe | Rich & Flavorful Pasta Sauce

• Lamb Bolognese sauce traces back to the Italian city of Bologna in the Emilia-Romagna region. The earliest known recipe dates to the late 18th century and was far different from the tomato-heavy sauces many of us eat today. Traditional Bolognese is made with finely chopped meat, onion, carrot, celery, broth, and sometimes milk or cream for added richness. Tomatoes were a minor player, if used at all.
• Over time, variations spread worldwide, especially in English-speaking countries, where the sauce became synonymous with pasta dinners.
• Today, chefs and home cooks alike experiment with the meat base, swapping in everything from turkey to venison. Using lamb gives the sauce a distinct Mediterranean flair while maintaining the heartiness and depth that make Bolognese so beloved.

Why Choose Lamb for Bolognese?

Lamb is not only delicious but also brings unique qualities to the table:

1. Flavor Depth: Lamb has a more pungent, more gamey taste than beef, which holds up beautifully to long cooking times.
2. Richness: Its natural fat content adds body and silkiness to the sauce.
3. Pairing Potential: Lamb pairs wonderfully with herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano, as well as spices like cinnamon or cumin, for a fusion twist.
4. Nutritional Value: Lamb is rich in protein, vitamin B12, and zinc, making it both satisfying and nourishing.
5. When combined with the slow-simmering process of a Bolognese, lamb creates a sauce that’s comforting, aromatic, and just a little unexpected.

Ingredients for a Classic Lamb Bolognese

Here’s a traditional-style recipe for lamb Bolognese that balances Italian authenticity with the unique flavor of lamb.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ pounds ground lamb
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef or chicken stock
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs fresh)
• 2 bay leaves
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ½ cup whole milk or heavy creamSalt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• 1 pound tagliatelle, pappardelle, or spaghetti

1. Build the Flavor Base

   Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery (the Italian soffritto). Cook slowly until softened, about 8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.

2. Brown the Lamb

   Add the ground lamb to the pot. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and slightly crispy in spots. This step develops rich, savory flavors—season lightly with salt and pepper.

3. Add Tomato Paste and Beef Broth

   Stir in tomato paste and let it caramelize for 2–3 minutes. Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it be reduced by half.

4. Simmer the Sauce

   Add crushed tomatoes, stock, oregano, thyme, bay leaves, and red pepper flakes. Stir, then bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and let cook gently for at least 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Simmering for a more extended period (3–4 hours) intensifies the flavor.

5. Finish with Creaminess

   About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the milk or cream. This softens the acidity of the tomatoes, giving the sauce a velvety texture. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

6. Cook the Pasta

   Boil pasta in generously salted water until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. Toss the pasta with the Bolognese, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to coat.

7. Serve and Garnish

   Divide among plates, top with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley or basil, and enjoy the cozy goodness.

Variations on Lamb Bolognese

One of the joys of cooking Bolognese is its adaptability. Here are a few variations to try:

1. Herb-Forward Bolognese: Add fresh rosemary or mint for a Mediterranean touch.
2. Spiced Lamb Bolognese: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cumin for a Middle Eastern-inspired flavor.
3. Vegetable-Loaded: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach during the simmering stage for more depth and nutrition.
4. Creamy Version: Stir in mascarpone cheese or ricotta at the end for added indulgence.
5. Slow Cooker Lamb Bolognese: Brown the lamb and vegetables first, then transfer to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

1. Don’t Rush Browning: Take your time when browning the lamb. This builds the deep, savory flavors that define the sauce.
2. Simmer: Bolognese is best when simmered at a low and slow temperature, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Use Quality Ingredients: Since the recipe is simple, good-quality lamb and tomatoes make all the difference.
4. Balance Acidity: Adding milk or cream helps balance the acidity of tomatoes — don’t skip this step.
5. Choose the Right Pasta: Wide, flat noodles like tagliatelle or pappardelle hold up best to hearty sauces.

What to Serve with Lamb Bolognese

Lamb Bolognese is a meal in itself, but you can make it part of a feast with the right accompaniments:

1. Side Salad: A crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness.
2. Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up extra sauce.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Simple roasted zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus make great sides.
4. Polenta or Risotto: Swap out pasta for creamy polenta or risotto for a unique serving style.

Leftovers and Storage

Bolognese actually improves in flavor after a day or two, making it a great make-ahead dish.

1. Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
2. Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
3. Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of stock or water to loosen if needed.

Why Lamb Bolognese Deserves a Spot on Your Table

• Lamb Bolognese takes everything you love about classic Italian comfort food and gives it an exciting twist. The richness of lamb, combined with the slow-simmered sauce, creates a dish that feels both rustic and refined. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, an elegant dinner party, or even a Sunday meal prep project.
• If you’re looking to expand your pasta repertoire or impress guests with something a little different, lamb Bolognese is the answer. It’s proof that with just a simple swap of protein, you can create a whole new dining experience.

About One Stop Halal

Welcome to the Home of Halal Lamb. We carry various lamb cuts that are hard to find elsewhere. We deliver to your doorstep anywhere in the United States within 1-2 business days.