Follow these steps for perfect results
bacon or pancetta
diced
yellow onion
chopped
carrots
finely chopped
celery
finely chopped
salt
freshly ground black pepper
ground chuck
white wine vinegar
garlic
minced
tomato paste
beef broth
reduced-sodium
whole milk
heavy cream
linguine pasta
prepared
Parmesan cheese
grated
Dice the bacon or pancetta.
Chop the yellow onion.
Finely chop the carrots.
Finely chop the celery.
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until it is crisp and has released almost all of its fat, about 6 minutes.
This is called rendering.
Add the onion, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper and cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are very soft and lightly browned around the edges, about 6 minutes.
Add the ground chuck and cook, stirring to break up any clumps, until the meat is browned, about 5 minutes.
Add the vinegar, garlic, and tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Add the beef broth and bring to a boil.
Lower the heat so that the sauce just simmers.
Simmer, partially covered, for 15 minutes.
Combine the milk and cream in a small mixing bowl.
After the sauce has simmered for 15 minutes, and at even intervals, start adding the milk-cream mixture little by little--1/4 cup or so at a time over 1 1/2 hours.
By the end of the 1 1/2 hours, the milk mixture should be completely incorporated and the sauce should be very thick and creamy.
This sauce is not supposed to be very "saucy"--it should be tender morsels of meat coated by a thick, creamy sauce.
Transfer the cooked pasta to a large heatproof bowl and add the sauce.
Toss the pasta with the sauce and serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Expert advice for the best results
For a richer flavor, use bone broth instead of beef broth.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Everything you need to know before you start
15 minutes
Sauce can be made a day ahead.
Serve in a shallow bowl, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Serve with a side of crusty bread.
Pair with a simple green salad.
A classic pairing for Italian cuisine.
Discover the story behind this recipe
A staple of Italian cuisine, often served on special occasions.
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