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.

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

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

1. 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!