Pot Bolognese Sauce is a rich and hearty dish that has become a staple in many kitchens. Made with ground beef and a medley of beans, this comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. This classic Italian meat sauce, often referred to as ragu sauce, is deeply satisfying and can be paired with various dishes. The aroma of simmering tomatoes and spices fills the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Let’s dive into making this delicious sauce!

Why You’ll Love This Pot Bolognese Sauce

This pot Bolognese sauce is not only easy to prepare but also loaded with flavor. Here are a few reasons to love it:

It’s a quick Bolognese sauce for pasta that the whole family will enjoy.
This homemade Bolognese sauce in a pot is perfect for meal prepping.
The traditional Bolognese sauce ingredients create a rich and deep flavor.
It’s versatile! Pair it with spaghetti, lasagna, or even use it in a vegetarian Bolognese sauce recipe.
Slow-cooked for enhanced flavors, making it a comforting meal.
It’s a low-fat option, fitting into various diet plans.

Ingredients for Pot Bolognese Sauce

Gather these items:

1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
1 (16-ounce) can pork and beans, undrained
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can lima beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

How to Make Pot Bolognese Sauce Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped celery until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Transfer the beef mixture to a 4- to 6-quart crockpot.
Step 3: Add the pork and beans (with liquid), drained kidney beans, and drained lima beans to the crockpot.
Step 4: Stir in ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, cider vinegar, dry mustard, and black pepper.
Step 5: Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 6: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until hot and bubbly.

Pro Tips for the Best Pot Bolognese Sauce

Keep these in mind:

Great for meal prep – make a big batch and freeze leftovers.
Adjust spices to your preference for a personalized flavor.
Serve with bread or over pasta for a complete meal.
For an easy Bolognese sauce in a pot, you can use a pressure cooker to save time.

Best Ways to Serve Pot Bolognese Sauce

Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

Serve over your favorite pasta for a classic Bolognese pasta sauce.
Use it as a filling in lasagna or stuffed peppers for a hearty dish.
Top with grated cheese and serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Pot Bolognese Sauce

To store leftover sauce, allow it to cool and then transfer to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This makes it perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pot Bolognese Sauce

What’s the secret to perfect Pot Bolognese Sauce?

The secret is to cook it slowly to allow the flavors to meld. A slow-cooked pot Bolognese sauce develops a depth of flavor that is unmatched.

Can I make Pot Bolognese Sauce ahead of time?

Yes! This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pot Bolognese Sauce?

Ensure you brown the meat well and don’t rush the cooking process. Cooking it low and slow is key to achieving that rich, authentic flavor.

Variations of Pot Bolognese Sauce You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations to explore:

For a vegetarian Bolognese sauce recipe, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.
Try adding different vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Experiment with different beans for a unique twist on the traditional ingredients.

Best Pot Bolognese Sauce Recipe for Comforting Meals

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Instant Pot Bolognese Sauce is a hearty and comforting meal made with ground beef and beans.

Author: Robert
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Crockpot
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
1 (16-ounce) can pork and beans, undrained
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can lima beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

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Instructions

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped celery until the meat is browned and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat.
Transfer the beef mixture to a 4- to 6-quart crockpot.
Add the pork and beans (with liquid), drained kidney beans, and drained lima beans to the crockpot.
Stir in ketchup, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, cider vinegar, dry mustard, and black pepper.
Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until hot and bubbly.