Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

Introduction

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian-inspired dish that brings comforting flavors to your table. This hearty pasta recipe combines rich ground beef and aromatic herbs in a savory tomato sauce, perfect for a satisfying family meal.

Ingredients

• 200g spaghetti
• 300g ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 400g crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Step 4: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Italian herbs. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Step 5: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce until well coated. Serve hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer sauce, add a splash of red wine when cooking the beef.
• Use a mix of ground beef and pork for added depth of flavor.
• Add finely chopped carrots and celery with the onion for a traditional soffritto base.
• Swap spaghetti for pappardelle or tagliatelle for a different texture.

Storage

Store leftover Bolognese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a little water if the sauce has thickened. Cooked pasta is best eaten fresh but can be refrigerated separately and reheated within 1-2 days.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Bolognese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, Bolognese sauce tastes even better when made in advance, as the flavors have more time to develop. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based mince for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version of this sauce.