The Casual Cook — Recipes

Simple, beautiful recipes that actually work.
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Weeknight Bolognese

By Sindri Aug 10, 2025 Serves 4 Prep 10 min Cook 30 min Total 40 min

Ingredients

  • 400 g ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 400 g canned crushed tomatoes
  • 120 ml milk
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
  • Olive oil, salt, pepper
  • Pasta + grated Parmesan

Instruments

Large saucepan,Wooden spoon,Colander

Prepwork

Chop vegetables and bring pasta water to a boil.

Steps

  1. Warm a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté onion 3–4 min; add garlic 30 sec.
  2. Add beef; brown and season with salt/pepper. Stir in tomato paste; cook 1 min.
  3. Add tomatoes, milk, oregano, and chili flakes. Simmer 15–20 min until glossy. Adjust seasoning.
  4. Cook pasta until al dente. Toss with sauce and finish with Parmesan.