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Pesto Fettuccini with Bolognese Sauce

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A delicious fusion of creamy basil pesto and rich, slow-simmered Bolognese sauce tossed with tender fettuccini pasta. This dish perfectly balances hearty, savory meat flavors with fresh, herby brightness—ideal for cozy dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz fettuccini pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk or cream
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened.
  2. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  4. Pour in the wine, if using, and let it reduce for a few minutes.
  5. Add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste; season with salt and pepper. Lower heat and simmer for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Stir in milk or cream toward the end to enrich the sauce and balance acidity.
  7. Meanwhile, cook the fettuccini in salted water until al dente. Drain, reserving a little pasta water.
  8. Warm the pesto in a separate pan over low heat. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently to coat, adding pasta water if needed.
  9. Plate the pesto-coated fettuccini and top generously with Bolognese sauce.
  10. Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, replace meat with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground.
  • To make it spicy, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Use nut-free pesto if preferred.
  • Store Bolognese separately for freezing up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of water or milk to restore texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/pesto-fettuccini-with-bolognese-sauce-3/