Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is a hearty and comforting Italian classic, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe features a rich and flavorful meat sauce made with ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork), tomatoes, aromatics, and Italian herbs. The sauce is slow-simmered to enhance its depth, then paired with perfectly cooked spaghetti and topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of 1 hour 55 minutes, this dish is both easy to make and full of bold flavors. It can be customized with different proteins, pasta alternatives, or even a vegetarian twist. Plus, leftovers store well for meal prep or quick future meals.
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness
- 1 medium onion finely chopped – Adds depth of flavor
- 2 cloves garlic minced – Enhances aroma
- 1 carrot finely diced – Adds natural sweetness
- 1 celery stalk finely diced – Balances the sauce with mild bitterness
- 1 lb 450g ground beef (or half beef, half pork) – The main protein component
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes – Forms the base of the sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor
- ½ cup beef broth or red wine – Adds depth and richness
- 1 tsp dried oregano – Essential Italian herb
- 1 tsp dried basil – Brings fresh and aromatic notes
- 1 bay leaf – Enhances the slow-cooked flavor
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste – Balances flavors
- ½ tsp black pepper – Adds mild heat
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional – For a spicy kick
- ½ cup whole milk optional – Softens the acidity of the tomatoes
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz 340g spaghetti – The perfect pairing for Bolognese sauce
- Water for boiling pasta – Needed for cooking
- 1 tbsp salt for pasta water – Enhances pasta flavor
- For Serving:
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Classic garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley chopped – Adds freshness
- Extra virgin olive oil drizzle, optional – For extra richness
Notes
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Spaghetti Bolognese
Follow these simple steps to create a rich, flavorful Spaghetti Bolognese at home.Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
✅ Finely chop onion, garlic, carrot, and celery.✅ Measure out the rest of the ingredients for easy cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
1️⃣ Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.2️⃣ Add chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until soft. 👉 Tip: Stir frequently to prevent burning and bring out the natural sweetness.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
1️⃣ Add ground beef (or beef & pork mix) to the pan.2️⃣ Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned (about 7–10 minutes).
3️⃣ Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional for heat). 👉 Tip: Drain excess fat if using high-fat ground meat for a lighter sauce.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes & Simmer
1️⃣ Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to enhance the flavor.2️⃣ Pour in crushed tomatoes and ½ cup beef broth (or red wine).
3️⃣ Add oregano, basil, and a bay leaf, then mix well.
4️⃣ Lower the heat and let it simmer for at least 45 minutes (longer = better flavor). 👉 Tip: Stir occasionally and add a splash of water if the sauce gets too thick.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
1️⃣ Bring a large pot of water to a boil.2️⃣ Add 1 tbsp salt, then cook spaghetti according to package instructions (about 8–10 minutes for al dente).
3️⃣ Drain and set aside. 👉 Tip: Save ½ cup pasta water to help blend the sauce with the pasta later.
Step 6: Add Final Touches to the Sauce
1️⃣ Stir in ½ cup whole milk (optional) to balance acidity.2️⃣ Remove bay leaf and taste the sauce—adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Combine & Serve
1️⃣ Toss cooked spaghetti with a few ladles of Bolognese sauce or serve sauce on top.2️⃣ Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil or parsley.
3️⃣ Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for extra richness (optional).