Ina Garten and Christine Baranski Make Weeknight Bolognese | Be My Guest | Food Network
In a charming escape to East Hampton, culinary icon Ina Garten invites the multi-talented Christine Baranski into her picturesque barn for an afternoon filled with laughter, stories, and, of course, delectable food. In this delightful episode of Be My Guest, the two charismatic figures embark on a culinary journey that promises to transport viewers straight to Italy. With the unmistakable flavors of home-cooked meals, they’re crafting a Weeknight Bolognese paired with Roasted Broccolini—dishes perfect for Christine to recreate at her Tuscan-style home.
The Heart of Bolognese
Bolognese sauce, with its rich flavors and comforting texture, is a classic Italian staple. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to gather around the table, share tales from the heart, and create memories. Ina proves that making this luscious sauce doesn’t have to be a time-consuming affair, demonstrating her signature approach to effortless entertaining.
Ingredients for Weeknight Bolognese:
- 2 tablespoons good olive oil, plus extra for cooking the pasta
- 1 pound lean ground sirloin
- 4 teaspoons minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 1/4 cups dry red wine, divided
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 3/4 pound dried pasta (like orecchiette or small shells)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves, lightly packed
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
Cooking Instructions
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Sauté the Meat: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large (12-inch) skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground sirloin, using a wooden spoon to crumble the meat as it cooks for 5 to 7 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink.
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Add Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes, letting it cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in 1 cup of dry red wine, scraping the skillet to lift any browned bits, which adds depth to the sauce. Next, incorporate the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
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Cook the Pasta: As the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add a splash of olive oil and your choice of pasta, cooking according to package instructions.
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Finish the Sauce: After the pasta has been cooking for about 8 to 10 minutes, add the ground nutmeg, basil, remaining 1/4 cup of wine, and heavy cream to your sauce. Let it develop flavors as it simmers and thickens.
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Combine and Serve: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and place it in a large serving bowl. Pour the Bolognese sauce over the pasta, adding 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan. Toss well to combine and serve hot, with extra Parmesan at the side for those who desire a little more decadence.
A Touch of Italy at Home
With its robust flavor and creamy texture, this Weeknight Bolognese is a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy evenings yet sophisticated enough for an elegant dinner. As Ina and Christine share their thoughts on love, Broadway, and the Italian dream, viewers are not only treated to a cooking lesson but an intimate glimpse into friendship and warmth at the dinner table.
So grab your apron and join these culinary queens on this delightful return to Italy, right from the comforts of your own kitchen. Let the aromas fill your home, and enjoy the rich flavors of this beloved dish!
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Video “Ina Garten and Christine Baranski Make Weeknight Bolognese | Be My Guest | Food Network” was uploaded on 10/26/2025 to Youtube Channel Food Network