Description
This classic Spaghetti Bolognese recipe features a rich and hearty meat sauce simmered to perfection with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and a splash of red wine. Served over al dente spaghetti and topped with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs, this comforting Italian dish is perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup whole milk or cream
Pasta Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
For Serving
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion, diced carrot, and celery. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until aromatic, being careful not to burn it.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it is fully browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor, allowing it to slightly caramelize.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in crushed tomatoes and red wine if using. Add dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and develops a rich flavor.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the whole milk or cream and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Cook Spaghetti: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well.
- Combine or Plate: Toss the cooked spaghetti with some of the Bolognese sauce or plate the pasta and spoon the sauce on top to your preference.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a vibrant finish.
Notes
- Using red wine is optional but adds depth to the sauce. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute with beef broth or omit entirely.
- Simmering the sauce uncovered allows it to thicken and concentrate flavors.
- Draining excess fat after browning the beef helps reduce greasiness in the final dish.
- Whole milk or cream adds richness to the sauce and balances acidity from the tomatoes.
- For an even richer flavor, the sauce can be made a day ahead to allow flavors to meld.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be substituted or combined based on preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
