Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
The Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines rich meat sauce with perfectly cooked spaghetti. With its origins in Bologna, Italy, this classic recipe has gained global popularity for its comforting taste and simple preparation. Known for its tender ground meat, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, the sauce is simmered to perfection, creating a dish that suits both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you're cooking for family or guests, this Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is sure to impress every time.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 520 kcal
Large pot
Skillet or saucepan
Wooden spoon
Colander
Grater
- 400g spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 500g ground beef or pork
- 2 large tomatoes (or 400g canned tomatoes)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup red wine (optional)
- Parmesan cheese for garnish
Prepare the ingredients: Chop the onion and garlic, and grate the Parmesan.
Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water, add spaghetti, and cook until al dente (around 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
Cook the meat: Add the ground beef and brown it on medium heat.
Add tomatoes and seasoning: Stir in the tomato paste, canned tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
Simmer the sauce: Pour in the red wine (if using) and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine the pasta and sauce: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Serve and garnish: Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
- For a lighter version, substitute beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Make it vegetarian by swapping the meat with mushrooms and lentils.
- The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.