Craving a hearty and comforting dish? This spaghetti bolognese recipe is your answer! With a rich, savory sauce made from ground meat, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, this classic Italian dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare and utterly satisfying, it promises to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process that make this dish irresistible!
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 300g ground beef or pork
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 400g canned tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 150ml red wine (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of around 30-40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the recipe):
Calories: 500, Protein: 30g, Carbohydrates: 70g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 5g. This is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ground meat, breaking it apart with a spoon, and brown it.
- Pour in the red wine (if using) and let it simmer until reduced.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Drain spaghetti and serve topped with the bolognese sauce and parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option. Additionally, use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a fresher taste or omit wine for a non-alcoholic version.
Serving and Pairings
Spaghetti bolognese pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or a side of roasted vegetables. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese enhances the dish beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using low-quality meat can affect flavor.
- Not browning the meat properly may lead to a bland sauce.
- Skipping the simmering time can result in a watery sauce.
- Overcooking spaghetti will make it mushy.
- Not seasoning adequately can dull the flavors.
- Using too much sauce can overwhelm the pasta.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as you cook.
- Let the sauce sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Try adding a bay leaf while simmering for extra depth.
- Use fresh herbs for better aroma and taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, spaghetti bolognese freezes well. Just ensure it is stored in an airtight container and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a dash of chili flakes for heat, or additional fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
How can I make it vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock for the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when ready to serve with freshly cooked pasta.
Conclusion
This spaghetti bolognese recipe is not only a timeless classic but also a comfort food that brings warmth to any table. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Enjoy making this beloved dish and share it with your loved ones!
Spaghetti Bolognese
Ingredients
- 400 g spaghetti
- 300 g ground beef or pork
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 carrot finely diced
- 2 celery stalks finely diced
- 400 g canned tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 150 ml red wine optional
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ground meat, breaking it apart with a spoon, and brown it.
- Pour in the red wine (if using) and let it simmer until reduced.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Drain spaghetti and serve topped with the bolognese sauce and parsley.
