Classic Spaghetti Bolognese is one of those dishes that transcends generations, cultures, and borders. Its deep, savory flavors and hearty texture make it a beloved meal in countless households around the world. This Italian pasta dish is known for its rich, slow-cooked meat sauce that blends tomatoes, vegetables, and spices into a warm, satisfying meal. The combination of tender ground meat and the savory flavors of onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and tomatoes is irresistible. The key to creating the perfect Bolognese lies in the slow simmering process, which allows the ingredients to meld together and develop a depth of flavor that is unmatched. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a meal to impress your guests, Classic Spaghetti Bolognese is a dish that brings comfort, satisfaction, and warmth. A plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti, topped with a rich, meaty sauce, is the ultimate comfort food, and it is the kind of recipe that always brings people together. It’s versatile, easy to make, and packs in an incredible amount of flavor. What’s even better is that Bolognese sauce can be made ahead of time, stored, and reheated for a quick weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why Classic Spaghetti Bolognese is a recipe everyone loves. First, the flavor is absolutely incredible. The Bolognese sauce is savory, rich, and full of depth, thanks to the slow cooking process. The combination of tender, slow-cooked ground meat, aromatic vegetables, and tomatoes creates a harmonious and well-balanced dish that is both comforting and indulgent. The slow-simmered sauce is hearty, making it a filling and satisfying meal that is perfect for feeding a crowd or just enjoying a quiet dinner at home. The rich flavors, combined with the al dente pasta, create a beautiful, balanced dish that never goes out of style. Another reason you’ll love this recipe is that it’s highly customizable. Whether you prefer to use beef, pork, or a combination of meats, this recipe works well with any variation. You can even make it vegetarian by swapping the meat for lentils or mushrooms. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead meal; the Bolognese sauce improves with time and can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for later use. Lastly, this dish is super easy to prepare. The ingredients are simple, and the steps are straightforward. With a bit of patience as the sauce simmers, you’ll have a comforting and delicious meal ready to serve.
Ingredients
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) red wine (optional but adds great flavor)
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk or heavy cream (optional, for richness)
For the Spaghetti:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- Salt, for boiling water
To Serve:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet and cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables should become softened, and the onion should turn translucent, which means they’re ready for the next step.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. You’ll start to smell the garlic’s fragrance, and this is when it’s important to stir constantly to prevent it from burning. Garlic adds an essential layer of flavor to the sauce, so make sure not to skip this step.
Step 3: Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the ground beef (or the beef and pork mixture) to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Cook the meat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through. You may need to drain some of the excess fat if there’s too much in the pan.
Step 4: Once the meat is cooked through, pour in the red wine, if using. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This process helps lift any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, adding great flavor to your sauce. The wine will also reduce and deepen the sauce’s taste, making it even richer.
Step 5: Now, it’s time to add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine. Add the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste, making sure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the sauce. Drop in the bay leaf, which will infuse a wonderful aroma into the sauce as it cooks. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. The longer you let it cook, the more the flavors will develop. If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a little more beef broth or water to thin it out.
Step 6: In the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, you can add the milk or heavy cream to the sauce, if desired. This step will give the Bolognese sauce a richer, creamier texture, adding depth and balance to the sauce. Stir the cream into the sauce and let it heat through before tasting and adjusting the seasoning if needed.
Step 7: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Be sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook once combined with the sauce. When the pasta is done, drain it, but be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water. This starchy water can be added to the sauce later to help it adhere to the pasta better.
Step 8: Now, combine the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce. If the sauce feels a bit too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Toss the pasta and sauce together, making sure the spaghetti is well-coated with the sauce.
Variation
Classic Spaghetti Bolognese can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. One option is to make a vegetarian version by swapping the meat for lentils or mushrooms. Lentils have a similar texture to ground meat and absorb the flavors of the sauce, while mushrooms add an earthy depth. You can also use a plant-based meat substitute if you prefer a vegan option. Another variation is to make the dish spicier by adding red pepper flakes or chili peppers. For those who enjoy the complexity of wine, you can increase the amount of red wine to 1 cup and allow it to reduce further for a stronger wine flavor. If you want to make a baked version, combine the sauce with the cooked spaghetti in a baking dish, top it with grated cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and golden. For a richer dish, add more cream or use half-and-half instead of milk.
Cooking Notes
- Slow Cooking is Key: The secret to the best Bolognese is in the slow cooking. Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 45 minutes, but if you have time, simmering it for 2-3 hours will develop an even deeper flavor. Be patient, and let the flavors meld together.
- Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick during cooking, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. If the sauce is too runny, let it cook uncovered for a while longer to reduce it.
- Make Ahead: Bolognese sauce is perfect for meal prepping. You can make it in advance, store it in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze it for up to three months. Reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a little water or broth if necessary to bring it back to the right consistency.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the Bolognese sauce with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor and color.
Serving Suggestions
Spaghetti Bolognese pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. You can serve it with freshly baked garlic bread, which complements the savory flavors of the sauce and is perfect for dipping. A simple green salad with olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese is a refreshing side dish that balances the richness of the pasta. If you’re craving more vegetables, sautéed spinach or roasted Brussels sprouts are excellent choices. For an indulgent meal, pair the dish with a glass of red wine, such as a medium-bodied Chianti, Sangiovese, or Merlot. These wines’ acidity and tannins help balance the richness of the Bolognese sauce.
Tips
- Don’t Skip the Aromatics: The onions, garlic, carrots, and celery are essential for building the flavor base of the sauce. Be sure to cook them until they’re soft and fragrant before adding the meat.
- Let the Sauce Simmer: The longer the sauce cooks, the better it gets. Don’t rush it—let it simmer for at least 45 minutes, but feel free to go longer for even more flavor.
- Taste and Adjust: As the sauce simmers, taste it periodically and adjust the seasoning. A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes, and a dash of salt will enhance all the flavors.
- Pasta Texture: When cooking the spaghetti, aim for al dente texture, as it will hold up better when combined with the sauce and won’t become mushy.
- Freezer-Friendly: This dish is perfect for freezing. Make a big batch, and store individual portions in freezer-safe containers for future meals.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 540 kcal per serving (with 1/4 of the recipe, including sauce and pasta)
Protein: 35 g
Sodium: 900 mg
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. It will slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce up to three days in advance and store it in the fridge. It can also be frozen for up to three months.
What should I serve with spaghetti Bolognese?
Traditional sides include garlic bread and a simple green salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sautéed spinach.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Yes! Adding mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers will enhance the texture and flavor of your sauce.
Conclusion
Classic Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless, satisfying dish that never fails to impress. The rich, savory sauce combined with perfectly cooked spaghetti makes for a meal that is both hearty and comforting. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or simply craving something delicious, this dish delivers on every level. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, anywhere.
