Perfect Spaghetti Bolognese: The Recipe That Will Ruin All Others
There’s something enchanting about a plate of Spaghetti Bolognese. The rich, meaty sauce clinging to perfectly slurpy pasta is the ultimate comfort food. But what turns a Bolognese into an unforgettable one? It’s all in the details. This recipe shows you how to step by step prepare a dish that’s practically bursting with flavor, simple to make, and guarantees to lavish compliments. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients Overview:
Each one is essential for building layers of flavor in this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Spaghetti (400g): Used to make the best Bolognese pasta. Its long strands capture the sauce beautifully.
- Ground beef (500g): Contributes to richness and a hearty texture.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing and a whisper of fruity flavor.
- Onion (1, finely chopped): Sweeter and aromatic base.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): For depth and a punch of flavor.
- Carrot (1, finely diced): A little sweetness and balance to the sauce.
- Celery (1 stalk, finely diced): Brings a gentle earthy flavor.
- Tomato paste (2 tbsp): Deepens the tomatoey flavor and thickens the sauce.
- Crushed tomatoes (400g): The backbone of the sauce, adding acidity and richness.
- Beef stock (250ml): It deepens the meaty flavour and adds moisture.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): A classic herb to go with the tomatoes.
- Bay leaf (1): Adds a mild, fragrant flavor to the sauce.
- Well-seasoned with salt and pepper (to taste): The essentials!
- Parmesan cheese (for serving): For savory, nutty topping.
- Fresh basil (for garnish): Adds a brilliant, herbal note that lifts the whole dish.
Eating is a necessity, but cooking is an art.
Spaghetti Bolognese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to assemble a Bolognese sauce that’s rich, flavorful and completely satisfying.
1. Cook the spaghetti:
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and reserve, saving a bit of pasta water.
2. Prepare the sauce base:
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Brown the beef:
- Raise the heat to high and stir in the ground beef.
- Cook, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned.
4. Build the flavor:
- Add the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef stock, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer, then lower the heat to low.
5. Simmer to perfection:
- Simmer the sauce for 30-40 minutes, stirring every so often.
- The sauce will thicken up and the flavors combine wonderfully.
6. Combine and serve:
- Toss with the Bolognese sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if necessary.
- Serve hot, topped with freshly grated parmesan and basil leaves.
Serving Suggestions, Storage, Tips, and Variations
Spinach and mushroom scrambled eggs recipe
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, to match the flavorful richness.
Storage Tips:
- Leftover Bolognese sauce in an airtight container in the fridge will keep for up to 3 days.
- (Without pasta, freeze the sauce for up to 3 months.) Defrost and heat before serving.
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes for some heat.
- Creamy: Add a dash of heavy cream to create a richer, velvety texture.
FAQs
- Can I use another kind of pasta?
- Yes! And while spaghetti is traditional, you could use fettuccine, tagliatelle — or even penne.
2. How do I thicken the sauce?
- Reduce it by simmering the sauce a little longer, or use a tablespoon of tomato paste.
3. Can I prep it in advance?
- Absolutely! The sauce will be even better the next day, once the flavors have deepened.
4. How do you reheat the leftovers best?
- Reheat gently in the stovetop, with a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce.
This Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is an easy-to-make crowd-pleaser full of flavor. This dish will never let you down, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Buon appetito!
Ingredients
MAIN INGREDIENTS
- Spaghetti (400g)
- Ground beef (500g)
- Olive oil (2 tbsp)
- Onion (1, finely chopped)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Carrot (1, finely diced)
- Celery (1 stalk, finely diced)
- Tomato paste (2 tbsp)
- Crushed tomatoes (400g)
- Beef stock (250ml)
- Dried oregano (1 tsp)
- Bay leaf (1)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
DRESSING
- Fresh basil (for garnish): Adds a vibrant, aromatic finish to your dish.
- Grated Parmesan (for serving): A nutty, savory topping that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti.
- Sauté vegetables.
- Brown beef.
- Add tomatoes and seasonings.
- Simmer sauce.
- Combine and serve.
Notes
- For more flavor, cook the sauce longer.
- Freeze the leftovers for an easy meal later.
