Italian Bolognese sauce

Italian Bolognese sauce, known as Ragù alla Bolognese, is a rich, slow-cooked meat-based sauce originating from Bologna, Italy. Its traditional base features finely chopped beef and pork, soffritto (onion, celery, carrot), tomatoes, wine, and a touch of milk or cream for tenderness, often simmered for hours to develop deep flavor.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Bolognese is a protein-rich dish with moderate fat from the meat, while its carbohydrate content is relatively low unless served with pasta. A typical serving provides iron, B vitamins, and lycopene from tomatoes, with a rough calorie range of 250-350 per half-cup (without pasta).

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	312 kcal
Protein	22 g
Carbs	12 g
Fat	20 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	7 g
Sodium	680 mg
Iron	4.2 mg
Potassium	620 mg
Vitamin A	78 µg RAE
Vitamin C	12 mg
Calcium	75 mg
Phosphorus	210 mg
Zinc	3.8 mg
Vitamin B12	2.1 µg

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

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, authentic Bolognese is traditionally served with tagliatelle, not spaghetti, and is a cornerstone of Emilian cuisine. Nutritionally, the slow cooking process helps break down proteins and fats, making it a hearty yet digestible option.