Print

Pesto Fettuccini with Bolognese Sauce

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A rich fusion of two Italian classics, this Pesto Fettuccini with Bolognese Sauce blends fragrant pesto with a hearty meat sauce for a comforting and flavor-packed pasta dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz fettuccini pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning or chopped fresh basil
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk (optional)
  • 1/3 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Stir in ground meat. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  4. Mix in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen flavor.
  5. Pour in crushed tomatoes and add Italian seasoning or basil. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add cream or milk if a richer texture is desired.
  6. Meanwhile, cook the fettuccini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  7. Stir pesto into the finished Bolognese sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Combine pasta with the pesto Bolognese sauce or serve the sauce over the pasta.
  9. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil before serving.

Notes

  • Use a mix of beef and pork for deeper flavor.
  • Store-bought pesto works well if you’re short on time.
  • To make it vegetarian, replace meat with lentils or plant-based ground.
  • Simmer longer for a thicker sauce or add tomato paste to thicken.
  • Use gluten-free pasta if needed.

Nutrition

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