Bolognese Al Forno

Bolognese Al Forno

When it comes to comfort food that brings people together, it’s hard to beat a bubbling, golden dish of Bolognese Al Forno fresh out of the oven. In many ways, this version takes everything you love about a traditional Italian classic and gives it a family-friendly twist. It all starts with the pasta.

To begin with, this dish uses anelli pasta rings. They are as fun to eat as they are delicious. As a result, it’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Anelli pasta isn’t just adorable. In fact, its shape holds onto sauce beautifully. Every bite is full of flavor.

Bolognese Al Forno Creamy Upgrade: Béchamel

What truly sets this dish apart, however, is the béchamel sauce. Not only does this silky layer complement the hearty Bolognese, but it also adds a smooth texture. At the same time, it softens the richness of the meat sauce. Everything comes together in a balanced way.

Ultimately, the result feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s classic Italian comfort at its best.

Baked to Perfection

Once everything is layered together, the dish goes into the oven. Tender pasta, rich sauce, creamy béchamel, and cheese combine into one cohesive bake. As it cooks, the top turns golden and bubbly. The edges become slightly crisp. Each layer settles into perfect harmony.

Because of this final step, the dish looks just as good as it tastes. It’s perfect for serving right at the table.

Finally, this recipe was created by our friend Daniela’s Dish. Be sure to check out Daniela’s Dish for more

This recipe was created by our friend Daniela’s Dish – check out her page for more delicious inspiration.

Ingredients

  • 1 Ib anelli pasta rings
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella
  • 1/2 grated Parmesan
  • Bolognese
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 carrot chopped
  • 1 celery stalk chopped
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1/4 Ib pancetta chopped
  • 11/2 Ibs ground veal
  • Salt and pepper
  • 3/4 cup white wine
  • 28 oz chopped tomatoes
  • 3/4 c milk

Bechamel

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • 4c whole milk
  • Salt and white pepper to taste

Instructions

Bolognese Sauce

  1. Melt the butter with the oil in a Dutch oven.
  2. Once the butter begins to foam, add the carrot, celery, onion, and pancetta. Cook for 5–7 minutes.
  3. Add the veal, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
  4. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Increase the heat, pour in the wine, and let it evaporate.
  6. Once the wine has evaporated, stir in the tomatoes.
  7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1½ hours.
  8. Stir in the milk and cook for an additional 15 minutes.

Béchamel Sauce

  1. Melt the butter in a large skillet and add the flour.
  2. Whisk together to form a roux.
  3. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly.
  4. Simmer over low heat until thickened, then season with salt and white pepper.

Assembly & Baking

  1. Cook the anelli pasta until firm to the bite (al dente), then drain.
  2. Transfer the pasta to a prepared 9 × 13-inch baking dish.
  3. Spread half of the béchamel sauce over the pasta.
  4. Top with the Bolognese sauce.
  5. Add the remaining béchamel sauce.
  6. Sprinkle with mozzarella, then Parmesan cheese.
  7. Cover and bake at 375°F for 30–40 minutes.
  8. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until bubbling and golden.

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