There’s something magical about the aroma of Spaghetti Bolognese. Picture this: a hearty, rich sauce simmering gently, filling the room with its meaty and aromatic goodness. The twirl of glossy spaghetti waiting to embrace that sauce is enough to make anyone’s stomach growl like a ferocious beast. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a hug in a bowl on chilly evenings, a celebration of flavors that dances on your palate.
I still remember the first time I attempted to make Spaghetti Bolognese. My kitchen looked like a tornado had hit it, but the taste? Absolutely divine! It quickly became my go-to dish for impressing friends and family during get-togethers. Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner or just whipping up a weeknight meal, Spaghetti Bolognese is always a winner that brings everyone together around the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This classic Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for beginner cooks
- Its layers of flavors create a comforting umami experience with every bite
- The vibrant colors of fresh ingredients make it visually appealing and perfect for any occasion
- You can customize the recipe by adding your favorite veggies or herbs for added flair
I once made this dish for my friends’ game night, and they couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
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Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to your sauce.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential—they elevate the flavor profile significantly.
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Carrot: Finely diced carrots add natural sweetness and color to the dish.
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Celery: Chopped celery contributes crunch and a mild flavor that balances the meatiness.
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Canned Tomatoes: Use quality crushed tomatoes for rich, deep flavor in your sauce.
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Red Wine: A splash of red wine enhances the sauce’s complexity—go for something you’d drink!
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Dried Oregano: Adds an Italian touch; fresh herbs work too if you have them!
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Spaghetti Pasta: Choose your favorite type of spaghetti; whole wheat is a great option!
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is non-negotiable—it’s the cherry on top of your pasta masterpiece.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté Your Veggies First: Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery, sautéing until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add Garlic and Meat Next: Toss in minced garlic and ground beef, breaking up the meat as it cooks until browned. This should take around 7-10 minutes; trust me—it smells heavenly!
Pour in Tomatoes and Wine: Once browned, stir in canned tomatoes and red wine. Let this simmer gently; you want those flavors to mingle beautifully (about 15-20 minutes).
Season Your Sauce Well: Sprinkle in dried oregano and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer again for another 10 minutes—this will deepen those flavors even further.
Cook Your Spaghetti Perfectly!: While your sauce simmers away happily, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well but save some pasta water—you might need it!
Toss It All Together!: Combine your drained spaghetti with that gorgeous Bolognese sauce! If it’s too thick, add some reserved pasta water until you reach desired consistency.
Now you’re ready to plate up some serious comfort food! Don’t forget to sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving!
Feel free to experiment with this classic recipe—add mushrooms or bell peppers if you fancy! Enjoy each delicious bite as though it’s the best thing you’ve ever tasted because it just might be!
You Must Know
- This classic Spaghetti Bolognese is a family favorite that combines rich flavors with comforting textures
- Using fresh ingredients elevates the dish, making it a delightful experience that everyone will love
- Pair it with garlic bread for an unforgettable meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then brown your meat before adding tomatoes. Simultaneously, boil water for pasta to save time and ensure everything is hot and ready.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian twist. Adding red wine to the sauce enriches its depth and flavor, making it truly special.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Spaghetti Bolognese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always taste your sauce while cooking; adjusting seasoning can make all the difference
- Use high-quality tomatoes for a richer flavor and don’t skip simmering time; it develops the taste beautifully
- Fresh herbs added at the end brighten up the dish remarkably
Memories of family gatherings flood my mind when I think of Spaghetti Bolognese, especially when kids ask for seconds with their faces covered in sauce.
FAQ
Can I use other meats for Spaghetti Bolognese?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils work well as alternatives.
How long should I simmer the sauce?
Simmering for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully together.
What’s the best way to serve Spaghetti Bolognese?
Serve it hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread for an amazing meal.
Savory Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in a classic Spaghetti Bolognese that fills your home with the comforting aroma of simmering meat and tomatoes. This hearty dish combines lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, making it the perfect centerpiece for family dinners or friendly gatherings. With its rich umami flavor and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy every palate.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 12 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and ground beef; cook until browned (7-10 minutes).
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and red wine; simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper; simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and reserve some pasta water.
- Toss the spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce. If too thick, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
- Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (400g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
