If you’re in the mood for a classic and comforting dinner, spaghetti Bolognese is always a winner. This hearty dish features a rich, meaty sauce served over tender spaghetti. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make Spaghetti Bolognese:
- Ground beef: 1 pound (450g)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Carrot: 1 medium, finely diced
- Celery: 1 stalk, finely diced
- Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
- Canned tomatoes: 1 can (28 ounces/800g), crushed
- Red wine: 1/2 cup (120ml)
- Beef broth: 1 cup (240ml)
- Bay leaves: 2
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: To taste
- Pepper: To taste
- Spaghetti: 12 ounces (340g)
- Parmesan cheese: Grated, for serving
Timing
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hr 15 minutes
- Total time: 1 hr 30 minutes
How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Cook the Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
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Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the meat until there’s no pink left, then drain any excess fat.
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Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste, and cook for a couple of minutes to deepen the flavor. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the crushed tomatoes, bay leaves, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
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Simmer: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for at least an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor.
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Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce is simmering, cook your spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, as it will hold up better with the sauce.
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Combine and Serve: Remove the bay leaves from the sauce, and toss the sauce with the cooked spaghetti. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
The Best Ground Meat for Spaghetti Bolognese
While traditional Bolognese uses a mixture of ground beef and pork, I prefer to stick with ground beef for its robust flavor and convenience. However, feel free to experiment with a mix of meats or even ground turkey for a lighter version.
Tips for Creating a Rich and Flavorful Bolognese Sauce
1- Low and Slow: The secret to a deep, rich Bolognese sauce is to let it simmer on low heat for as long as possible. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
2- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes and beef broth. These will make a noticeable difference in the final dish.
3- Don’t Skip the Wine: Red wine adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the sauce. If you don’t consume alcohol, you can substitute with more beef broth, but the wine really elevates the dish.
How to Cook Spaghetti Perfectly Every Time
Cooking spaghetti might seem straightforward, but a few tips can ensure it’s perfect every time:
1- Salt the Water Generously: This is your only chance to season the pasta itself, so don’t be shy with the salt.
2- Stir Occasionally: This prevents the spaghetti from sticking together.
3- Test for Doneness: Start tasting a minute or two before the package suggests. You want the pasta to be al dente, firm to the bite.
Variations of Spaghetti Bolognese: Make It Your Own
1- Add Vegetables: For a heartier meal, stir in some chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers with the onions and carrots.
2- Spicy Kick: If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
3- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream at the end of cooking for a creamier sauce.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Spaghetti Bolognese
1- Garlic Bread: A classic side that’s perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
2- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.
3- Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the rich sauce.
How to Store and Reheat Spaghetti Bolognese Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also freeze the sauce (without the pasta) for up to 3 months.
Make-Ahead Tips: Preparing Spaghetti Bolognese in Advance
Spaghetti Bolognese is a great make-ahead meal. Prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the sauce and cook the spaghetti fresh. This allows the flavors in the sauce to develop even more.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Spaghetti Bolognese
1- Skipping the Simmer: Don’t rush the simmering process; it’s essential for a rich sauce.
2- Not Draining Excess Fat: After browning the meat, drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy sauce.
3- Overcooking the Pasta: Remember to cook the pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Nutritional Information
Amount Per Serving (1/6 of the recipe):
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 25g
Conclusion
Spaghetti Bolognese is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings people together. With this recipe, you can create a hearty dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Don’t be afraid to make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors.