The Best Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe to Savour Every Bite!
This spaghetti Bolognese recipe fills the kitchen with a rich, savoury aroma that promises a comforting meal. Over the years, I have prepared this dish many times and each occasion brings a sense of satisfaction. The tomato-based sauce, simmered slowly, develops a deep flavour as the sweetness of tomatoes mingles with herbs and spices. Tender ground meat and fresh vegetables create a hearty sauce that pairs perfectly with spaghetti cooked to al dente perfection.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Whether you are a long-time pasta enthusiast or are just starting to experiment with Italian cooking, you will find the method clear and the result satisfying. This dish has a way of bringing friends and family together, making any meal a memorable gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No special equipment needed. A regular kitchen setup with a pot, skillet, and pasta cooker is enough.
- Rich, layered flavours. A mix of herbs, ripe tomatoes, and ground meat creates a sauce that excites the palate.
- Easily adaptable. Add extra garlic or a splash of red wine to put your own twist on the dish.
- Great for any occasion. It works as a quick weekday dinner or a relaxed weekend meal.
Ingredients
Gather these essential items to create an authentic spaghetti bolognese:
- 400g spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 500g lean ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering and preparing all the ingredients. Finely chop the onions, dice the carrots, chop the celery, and mince the garlic so that everything is ready to use. Bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil for the spaghetti at this stage will help keep your process smooth.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and allow them to soften and turn slightly golden for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the garlic for an additional minute until you notice its fragrant aroma. This step lays the foundation for a flavourful sauce.
3. Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it into small pieces as it cooks, and continue until the meat is browned evenly. Proper browning brings out a deep flavour and texture that complements the softened vegetables nicely.
4. Build the Sauce
Mix in the tomato paste and let it cook for about two minutes to meld with the meat. If using red wine, pour it in and allow it to reduce a bit. Then stir in the crushed tomatoes and broth along with the dried oregano, dried basil, and bay leaf. Season the mixture with salt and pepper and bring it to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer for Perfection
Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes. This slow cooking helps the flavours deepen and the meat become more tender. Stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
6. Cook the Spaghetti
As the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti in the boiling water until it reaches an al dente texture, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta, keeping a small amount of the pasta water aside to thin the sauce if needed.
7. Final Touches and Serve
Either toss the spaghetti with the sauce or serve the sauce on top of the pasta. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to smooth it out. Garnish with fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy every delicious bite.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a few minutes longer to evaporate extra liquid.
- Mix ground beef with pork for a richer flavour.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing stage if you like some heat.
- Consider tossing in extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added texture.
- You can make the sauce ahead; cool it, store it in the fridge, and gently reheat before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a plant-based ground meat alternative?
A: Yes, many plant-based options work well. Adjust the cooking time if needed since they might brown faster than meat.
Q: Do I really need red wine in the sauce?
A: Red wine adds depth, but you can replace it with extra broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
Q: How long can the sauce be stored?
A: The sauce can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and freezes nicely for longer storage.
Share Your Spaghetti Bolognese Joy!
I hope this recipe brings you as much comfort and enjoyment as it has for me. Try it out and let the inviting aroma of simmered tomatoes, herbs, and meat fill your kitchen. This dish isn’t just about a satisfying meal. It’s about the pleasure of gathering loved ones around a table for a warm, flavourful dining experience.
Feel free to tweak the recipe to match your taste and experiment with ingredients. I would love to hear how you personalize this dish, so please share your experiences and tips. Enjoy every warm, flavourful spoonful and happy cooking!