Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
Introduction
Spaghetti Bolognese is one of the most popular and comforting pasta dishes in the world. This classic Italian-inspired recipe combines perfectly cooked spaghetti with a rich, slow-simmered meat sauce full of flavor.
It’s an ideal meal for family dinners, meal prep, or when you want something hearty and satisfying. The sauce is made with simple ingredients like ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs, but when cooked slowly, it develops a deep and delicious taste.
Ingredients
For the meat sauce:
- 500g ground beef
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
For the pasta:
- 400g spaghetti
- Water and salt for boiling
Optional:
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the meat sauce
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Step 3: Add the sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and add tomato paste. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 20–30 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and becomes rich in flavor.
Step 4: Combine and serve
Serve the meat sauce over the cooked spaghetti. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Let the sauce cook slowly for a deeper flavor
- Use fresh garlic and onion for better taste
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not simmering the sauce long enough
- Overcooking the pasta
- Adding too much salt early
Serving Suggestions
This dish goes perfectly with:
- Garlic bread
- Fresh green salad
- A glass of juice or sparkling water
Storage
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Reheat on the stove or microwave
- You can freeze the sauce for up to 2 months
Variations
- Use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef
- Add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms
- Make it spicy by adding chili flakes
FAQ
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge.
Can I freeze spaghetti Bolognese?
Yes, especially the sauce. It freezes very well.
What pasta can I use instead of spaghetti?
You can use penne, fusilli, or any pasta you like.
Nutrition Note
This recipe provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. It is a filling meal, but portion control is recommended for a balanced diet.
