Spaghetti Bolognese: A Classic Recipe

Spaghetti Bolognese is a beloved Italian dish that combines a rich, meaty sauce with perfectly cooked pasta. This spaghetti bolognese recipe is not only easy to make, but it also delivers a hearty meal that is perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Key Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (or a mixture of beef and pork)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef bouillon
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound spaghetti
• Parmesan cheese for serving

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Bolognese Sauce

In a large pot or dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they are soft.

2. Add Garlic and Meat

Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the pot. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it up with a spoon. If using, pour in the red wine and allow it to simmer for a few minutes.

3. Combine the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef bouillon, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

4. Simmer the Sauce

Let the bolognese sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For the best flavor, consider simmering for up to 2 hours. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water or pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

5. Cook the Spaghetti

While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain the pasta and reserve some pasta water.

6. Combine Sauce and Pasta

Toss the cooked spaghetti with the bolognese sauce until well combined. If needed, add a splash of pasta water to help the sauce adhere to the spaghetti.

7. Serve and Garnish

Serve the spaghetti bolognese hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread.

Conclusion

This spaghetti bolognese recipe is a crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters. It’s a comforting meal that can be prepared in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. Whether you’re making it from scratch or using leftover sauce, enjoy this authentic Italian classic!