Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce

Spaghetti Bolognese, a dish that has won the hearts of countless food lovers around the globe, is much more than just a comforting plate of pasta and sauce. This classic Italian recipe, originating from the picturesque city of Bologna, is steeped in history and tradition, making it a staple in households across continents. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it an ideal choice for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even a cozy night in. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, Spaghetti Bolognese offers a canvas for creativity while providing a delicious meal that everyone can enjoy.

Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce

Discover the joy of making classic Spaghetti Bolognese, a beloved dish that unites food lovers around the world. Originating from Bologna, this rich, hearty recipe features a savory blend of ground meat, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. With quality ingredients and simple techniques, you can create an authentic, flavorful meal that brings warmth and tradition to your table. Elevate your culinary skills and experience the satisfaction of homemade goodness!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

400g spaghetti

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 medium carrot, diced

1 celery stalk, diced

500g ground beef (or a blend of beef and pork for added flavor)

400g canned chopped tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper, to taste

50g grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti:

- In a large pot, bring salted water to a vigorous boil.

- Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the pasta water for later use.

- Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.

Prepare the Bolognese Base:

- In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent.

Add Vegetables:

- Incorporate the minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery into the skillet.

- Cook the mixture for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Brown the Meat:

- Increase the heat to medium-high and introduce the ground beef to the skillet.

- Cook while breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until the meat is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 7-8 minutes.

Deglaze with Wine (if using):

- If you choose to use red wine, pour it into the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it slightly reduces, scraping any flavorful browned bits from the pan’s bottom.

Add Tomatoes and Seasoning:

- Stir in the canned chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, along with salt and pepper to taste.

- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

Simmer the Sauce:

- Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes.

- Stir occasionally, and if the sauce thickens too much, gradually add in some reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.

Combine with Spaghetti:

- Add the drained spaghetti directly into the Bolognese sauce.

- Toss together thoroughly, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated in the rich sauce.

Serve:

- Plate each serving of spaghetti Bolognese generously, topping it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

- For an extra touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Enjoy:

- Dive into your delicious homemade spaghetti Bolognese and indulge in its comforting, rich flavors!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings

Presentation Tips: Serve in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the pasta and sauce beautifully. Drizzling a little olive oil on top can add a nice sheen, and some additional cheese can enhance the visual appeal.