11 Bolognese Recipes That Bring Comfort to the Table

There’s something deeply satisfying about a pot of Bolognese simmering on the stove or baking in the oven. From classic meat sauces to creative vegetarian twists, these recipes highlight just how versatile Bolognese can be. Whether you’re reaching for ground beef, lentils, or lamb, these dishes all deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Serve them over pasta, tuck them into gnocchi, or spoon over veggies for something cozy and rich.

Baked Gnocchi Bolognese

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This skillet meal layers soft gnocchi with a meaty Bolognese sauce and melted cheese. Everything bakes together in the oven for a hands-off dinner. The gnocchi soak up all the sauce for extra flavor. It’s simple, hearty, and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Baked Gnocchi Bolognese

Beef Bolognese Gravy

This small-batch Bolognese sauce is ideal when you don’t want leftovers for days. It’s thick, beefy, and great over pasta, rice, or even roasted vegetables. The long simmer builds rich, deep flavor. It’s perfect for when you want a homemade meal without extra fuss.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bolognese Gravy

Best Vegetarian Bolognese

A plate of spaghetti topped with tomato-based sauce, lentils, chopped parsley, and grated cheese, with a fork twirling some of the pasta. — Best Vegetarian Bolognese. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

This meatless version uses chopped vegetables, tomatoes, and herbs to mimic the heartiness of the original. It’s rich, savory, and holds up beautifully with any pasta. The texture is thick and satisfying. You won’t miss the meat at all.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegetarian Bolognese

Bolognese Sauce

This slow-simmered sauce blends ground meat, tomatoes, and aromatics for bold flavor. It’s a classic Italian favorite that works with nearly any pasta shape. Each bite is savory and deeply satisfying. It’s great to freeze for future meals.
Get the Recipe: Bolognese Sauce

Chicken Bolognese

Ground chicken makes this sauce lighter while still keeping it rich and flavorful. Garlic, onions, and herbs give it plenty of depth. It cooks quickly, making it ideal for weeknights. Pair it with spaghetti or wide noodles.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bolognese

Instant Pot Bolognese

The pressure cooker speeds up this rich meat sauce without losing any flavor. It’s a great option when you want a homemade Bolognese but don’t have hours to spare. Serve with pasta and a generous sprinkle of parmesan. Leftovers taste even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Bolognese

Lamb Bolognese

Lamb adds a bold twist to the traditional recipe, bringing a deeper flavor. Red wine, tomatoes, and herbs round out the sauce. It simmers slowly for a luxurious texture. Try it with tagliatelle or pappardelle for something extra cozy.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Bolognese

Lentil Bolognese

A pan filled with cooked lentils, tomatoes, carrots, and onions sits on a green cloth next to a spoon and fresh basil leaves. — Lentil Bolognese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Hearty lentils replace the meat in this vegetarian version. Tomatoes and aromatics give it a rich, satisfying base. It’s budget-friendly and filling. Great with pasta or spooned over baked potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese

Low Carb Spaghetti Bolognese

This dish uses low-carb noodles and a rich meat sauce for a lighter spin on the classic. It’s gluten-free and grain-free, with no flavor sacrificed. The BBQ-style twist adds a smoky note. Easy to customize and quick to cook.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Spaghetti Bolognese

Pesto Fettuccini with Bolognese Sauce

A bowl of fettuccine pasta topped with tomato meat sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil sits on a wooden table. — Pesto Fettuccini with Bolognese Sauce. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

Fresh pesto meets meaty Bolognese in this layered pasta dish. Fettuccini adds the right texture to hold both sauces. Each bite is bold and savory. It’s a fun twist for anyone who loves combining flavors.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Fettuccini with Bolognese Sauce

Vegan Bolognese

A plate of spaghetti topped with tomato-based lentil and vegetable sauce, garnished with fresh basil, with a fork and knife on the side. — Vegan Bolognese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This plant-based version combines mushrooms, lentils, and tomatoes into a thick, hearty sauce. It’s ready in under an hour with minimal prep. The texture is rich and satisfying, great for any pasta night. Even meat lovers will enjoy this version.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Bolognese