Bologna pasta sauce

Bologna pasta sauce, often called 'ragù alla bolognese,' is a rich, slow-cooked meat sauce from Bologna, Italy, traditionally served with tagliatelle pasta. It typically features a base of finely chopped onions, carrots, and celery sautéed in olive oil, combined with ground beef (and sometimes pork or veal), tomato paste or purée, red wine, and milk or cream for richness. The sauce is simmered for hours to develop deep, savory flavors.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This sauce is moderate to high in protein from the ground meat and contains some fat, especially if using higher-fat beef or adding cream. It provides iron, zinc, and B vitamins from the meat, along with lycopene from tomatoes, and a typical serving (about 1/2 cup) ranges from 150 to 250 calories, depending on meat-to-sauce ratio and added fats.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	250 kcal
Protein	12 g
Carbs	18 g
Fat	14 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	8 g
Sodium	850 mg
Vitamin C	15 mg
Vitamin A	1200 IU
Iron	2.5 mg
Calcium	80 mg
Potassium	450 mg
Vitamin B12	1.2 mcg
Zinc	2.8 mg
Selenium	15 mcg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, ragù alla bolognese is a cornerstone of Italian regional cuisine, with its slow-cooking method reflecting a tradition of hearty, family-style meals. Nutritionally, the combination of meat and tomatoes creates a balanced dish that offers both protein and antioxidants, making it a satisfying and nourishing comfort food.