There’s something about the aroma of Spaghetti Bolognese that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. The rich, savory scent of simmering ground beef mingled with ripe tomatoes and fragrant herbs creates an irresistible invitation to gather around the table. Picture it: a steaming plate of twirled spaghetti, glistening with sauce and crowned with freshly grated Parmesan. It’s comfort food at its finest, ready to warm your heart and fill your belly.
As I stir the sauce bubbling away on the stovetop, I can’t help but reminisce about family dinners where laughter echoed off the walls, and my grandma’s secret recipe took center stage. Those meals were as much about the food as they were about togetherness, making Spaghetti Bolognese not just a dish but a cherished tradition. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive gathering, this recipe promises to elevate any occasion into something special.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This classic Spaghetti Bolognese is incredibly easy to whip up on busy nights
- Its deep, robust flavors make every bite unforgettable
- The vibrant colors and enticing aromas create an eye-catching presentation at dinner parties
- Versatile enough for any dietary preference, you can easily swap ingredients to suit your needs
My friends once declared my Spaghetti Bolognese as “life-changing,” which is still one of my proudest moments in the kitchen.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for maximum flavor without being overly greasy.
Onions: Use yellow onions for sweetness; finely chop them so they blend seamlessly into your sauce.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give the best flavor; minced right before use enhances its aromatic qualities.
Canned Tomatoes: Choose high-quality crushed tomatoes for a rich base; San Marzano is my personal favorite.
Carrots: Finely diced carrots add natural sweetness; be sure to sauté them until tender for optimal flavor.
Celery Stalks: Chopped celery brings crunch and depth; sauté alongside onions for better integration into the sauce.
Red Wine: A splash of dry red wine enriches the sauce’s complexity; let it simmer for an enhanced flavor profile.
Italian Herbs: Use dried oregano and basil; fresh alternatives can be added towards the end for extra freshness.
Pasta: Long spaghetti noodles are traditional, but feel free to substitute with your favorite pasta variety.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty finish; always go for block cheese over pre-grated when possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping onions, garlic, carrots, and celery into small pieces. Gather all your ingredients close by so cooking flows smoothly.
Sauté Vegetables First: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent—around 5 minutes—then toss in garlic until fragrant.
Add Meat and Brown It Well: Crank up the heat slightly before adding ground beef. Cook until browned all over, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon for even cooking.
Pour in Tomatoes and Wine : Once meat is browned, add crushed tomatoes and red wine. Stir everything together while enjoying the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen.
Season Generously : Add salt, pepper, oregano, and basil to taste. Let this delicious mixture simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes to develop rich flavors.
Cook Your Pasta : About 10 minutes before serving, boil salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
This hearty meal invites everyone to gather around, share stories, and savor each flavorful bite together while making delightful memories!
You Must Know
- Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic dish that’s both hearty and comforting
- Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe combines rich flavors with simple ingredients
- The smell of simmering sauce will have your family gathering in the kitchen, ready to dig in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the meat first to lock in flavors, then sauté vegetables, and finally let the sauce simmer while you cook the pasta to perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your Spaghetti Bolognese is top-notch, use quality ingredients like fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente for that perfect bite
- Lastly, don’t rush the simmering process; flavors deepen with time!
Reflecting on my first attempt at Spaghetti Bolognese, I remember my friends raving about it—now it’s a staple at all our gatherings!
FAQ
Can I make Spaghetti Bolognese ahead of time?
Yes, this dish actually tastes better when made a day in advance as flavors develop.
What side dishes pair well with Spaghetti Bolognese?
Garlic bread or a fresh green salad complements Spaghetti Bolognese beautifully.
How can I make my Bolognese sauce thicker?
Simmer longer to reduce liquid or add tomato paste for extra thickness and richness.
Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a rich and savory sauce that envelops perfectly cooked pasta. This classic dish combines ground beef, aromatic herbs, and ripe tomatoes to create a delightful meal that evokes heartwarming memories of family gatherings. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this easy-to-follow recipe ensures every bite is packed with flavor and nostalgia.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes (preferably San Marzano)
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1/2 cup dry red wine
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions for about 5 minutes until translucent; then add garlic until fragrant.
- Increase heat slightly and add ground beef. Cook until browned all over, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and red wine, mixing well.
- Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Boil salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
- Combine the drained spaghetti with the sauce and add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350g)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
