Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon
Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti Bolognese

Rich, hearty, and comforting, this classic spaghetti bolognese features a slow-simmered meat sauce made with ground beef, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s a timeless Italian-inspired dish that’s easy enough for weeknights yet satisfying enough for Sunday dinner.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium carrot, finely grated

1 celery stalk, finely chopped

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1/2 cup beef broth or red wine

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

12 oz spaghetti

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Cook the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.

Brown the Beef
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Build the Sauce
Stir in garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, broth (or wine), oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Simmer
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and rich.

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.

Serve
Spoon bolognese sauce over spaghetti. Garnish with herbs and Parmesan cheese.

 

Notes

Cooking Tips

  • Low and slow is best: The longer the sauce simmers, the deeper the flavor.

  • Salt your pasta water well: It should taste like the sea for properly seasoned pasta.

  • Finish in the sauce: Toss cooked spaghetti with a little sauce before plating for better flavor absorption.

  • Make ahead: The sauce tastes even better the next day and freezes well.

Variations

 

  • Authentic Italian-style: Use a mix of ground beef and pork, and add a splash of milk at the end for richness.

  • Vegetable boost: Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra texture and nutrition.

  • Spicy Bolognese: Increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of chili paste.

  • Gluten-free: Serve with gluten-free spaghetti or over zucchini noodles.

  • Slow cooker version: Brown the meat first, then simmer all ingredients on low for 6–8 hours.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 680mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 28g

Find it online: https://greatfoodrecipe.com/classic-spaghetti-bolognese/

ahrefs-site-verification_cb2d2902077a30d58b72c49921b5bc3179d1505ac1848cd914198c5cd392c04a