When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it’s the warm, inviting aroma of Spaghetti Bolognese wafting through the kitchen. Imagine twirling those luscious strands of pasta around your fork, each bite bursting with rich, savory flavors that make you feel as if you’ve been transported to an Italian trattoria. The perfect balance of juicy ground meat, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a melody of taste that dances on your palate and warms your soul.
I remember the first time I made Spaghetti Bolognese for my friends; it was a casual dinner party that turned into a raucous feast filled with laughter and second helpings. Watching them savor my creation while telling stories made me realize that this dish isn’t just about food—it’s about connection and sharing moments together. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, Spaghetti Bolognese is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that promises smiles and satisfied bellies.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is simple yet impressive, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions
- Its robust flavor profile will leave everyone asking for seconds
- The vibrant colors and textures create an enticing dish that’s easy on the eyes
- It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins for added flair
Every time I serve this dish, I can practically hear the forks clanking against plates and see my friends grinning like kids in a candy store—it’s pure joy!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Spaghetti: Go for quality dried spaghetti; it holds sauce well and gives that perfect al dente bite.
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
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Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness; use yellow or white onions for best results.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic depth; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.
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Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole peeled tomatoes; crush them yourself for better texture.
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Carrot: A grated carrot adds natural sweetness to balance acidity; it’s a secret weapon in many sauces.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking; it enhances all flavors beautifully.
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Basil & Oregano: Fresh herbs are best, but dried works too if that’s what you have on hand.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan right before serving; its nutty flavor elevates the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop onions and garlic finely, grate carrots, and set everything within arm’s reach to keep things flowing smoothly.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes—then throw in minced garlic until it’s golden.
Add Ground Beef & Vegetables: Increase the heat slightly, add ground beef, breaking it up with your spoon. Cook until browned completely. Toss in grated carrots and let them mingle for about 3 minutes.
Add Tomatoes & Herbs: Pour in those glorious canned tomatoes (crushed), along with basil and oregano. Let everything simmer together for about 20 minutes while you sip some wine—this is key!
Toss in the Pasta: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain but reserve some pasta water! Mix pasta with sauce in the pan over low heat; add reserved water to achieve desired consistency.
Serve & Enjoy!: Plate your Spaghetti Bolognese generously, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and watch everyone dive into their plates like hungry little birds—it’s a sight worth seeing!
And there you have it: Spaghetti Bolognese that’ll have everyone asking for more! Enjoy every bite while cherishing those delightful moments around the table.
You Must Know
- Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic dish that’s beloved worldwide
- It’s not just filling; it’s a symphony of flavors
- A good sauce takes time to develop, so don’t rush it
- Perfect for cozy dinners and impressing guests with minimal effort
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground meat, then add aromatics like onions and garlic before simmering the sauce. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions while the sauce simmers for perfect timing.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add mushrooms for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate your sauce to new heights.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer sauce, let it simmer longer than usual to deepen flavors
- Always season your pasta water generously; it makes a world of difference
- Keep fresh herbs handy; they elevate every bite with vibrant freshness
I remember the first time I made Spaghetti Bolognese for my friends; they practically begged me for my secret recipe after one bite.
FAQ
Can I use other meats for Spaghetti Bolognese?
Yes, turkey or even lentils make great substitutes for traditional beef.
How long should I simmer the sauce?
A good simmer should last at least 30 minutes, but longer enhances flavors.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Worcestershire sauce or red wine can deepen the taste of your Bolognese sauce.
Spaghetti Bolognese
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Spaghetti Bolognese, a classic Italian dish perfect for any occasion. This rich and savory recipe combines tender spaghetti with a hearty meat sauce made from lean ground beef, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together around the table for laughter and joy. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can recreate this beloved dish in your kitchen and impress everyone with its robust flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes, crushed
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil (or 2 tbsp fresh)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or 2 tbsp fresh)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Finely chop onions, mince garlic, and grate carrots.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pan over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add onions and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add garlic and sauté until golden.
- Brown the beef: Increase heat slightly, add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.
- Add veggies: Stir in grated carrots; cook for about 3 minutes.
- Simmer sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, basil, and oregano. Let simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Cook spaghetti: Prepare spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain but reserve some pasta water.
- Combine: Mix pasta with the sauce in the pan over low heat; add reserved water to reach desired consistency.
- Serve: Plate generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
