Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe – Italian Special
Indulge in the timeless comfort of Spaghetti Bolognese, a cherished Italian classic that brings together the savory goodness of ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce. Originating from Bologna, this dish has become a global favorite, offering a hearty and satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe delivers authentic Italian flavors that will delight your taste buds. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a garnish of fresh basil for an extra touch of authenticity.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time45 min
- Total Time55 min
Spaghetti Bolognese Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or beef/pork mix)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Spaghetti, cooked according to package instructions
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
How to make Spaghetti Bolognese:
Prepare Ingredients: Dice onion, carrot, and celery.
Mince garlic.
Cook Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Brown Meat: Increase heat to medium-high.
Add ground beef (and pork if using). Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Add Tomato and Seasonings: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
Add crushed tomatoes, broth, and red wine (if using).
Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Simmer Sauce: Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and let simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken.
Cook Spaghetti: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain.
Serve: Toss spaghetti with the sauce or serve sauce over spaghetti.
Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Recipe Notes
Meat Choice: For a traditional flavor, use a combination of ground beef and pork.
Wine Addition: Red wine enhances the depth of the sauce; however, you can omit it if preferred.
Simmer Time: Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes to develop rich flavors.
Pasta Pairing: While spaghetti is commonly used, traditional Bolognese is often served with tagliatelle.
Freezing Tip: The sauce can be made in advance and frozen for up to 3 months.
