There’s a certain comfort in a sprawling pot of Spaghetti Bolognese bubbling away on the stove, the rich aroma enveloping the kitchen like a warm hug. I first discovered this classic dish during a cozy Sunday dinner with friends, and ever since then, it has held a special place in my heart—and my recipe collection. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its rustic flavors but also in its effortless preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal that tastes like it took hours to simmer.
Whether you’re looking to impress family on a weeknight or seeking a satisfying dish to share with friends, this Spaghetti Bolognese recipe delivers every time. It’s versatile enough to please picky eaters yet sophisticated enough for a dinner party. Let’s dive into a step-by-step guide, so you too can embrace the rustic charm of homemade Bolognese just like I did!
Why You'll Love This Spaghetti Bolognese
- This Spaghetti Bolognese is a breeze to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
- The combination of rich ground beef and fresh vegetables creates a savory sauce that will tantalize your taste buds and leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Its versatility shines through, as you can easily modify the ingredients to cater to your family’s preferences or dietary needs.
- Plus, the vibrant colors and beautiful presentation make it a visually appealing dish that is sure to impress your guests.
Spaghetti Bolognese Ingredients
For the Pasta
• 12 oz spaghetti – ensures that each bite is perfectly al dente when cooked.
For the Sauce
• 1 lb ground beef – a hearty base that adds depth and richness to your Bolognese.
• 1 medium onion (chopped) – caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the sauce’s flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced) – infuses a delightful aroma and zest.
• 1 carrot (finely chopped) – brings a touch of sweetness and extra nutrition.
• 1 celery stalk (finely chopped) – adds a subtle crunch and earthy flavor.
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes – serves as the heart of the sauce, giving it that rich red color.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional) – adds complexity, but feel free to omit for a family-friendly dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – imparts a warm, herbaceous note to your sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – complements the tomatoes with a fragrant hint of sweetness.
• Salt and pepper (to taste) – essential for balancing the flavors beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – helps in sautéing the vegetables, adding a luscious richness.
Garnishes
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) – adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving) – elevates the dish with a savory finish, truly hallmark to a great Spaghetti Bolognese.
How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese
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Boil water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. This is essential for giving the spaghetti a perfect texture, ensuring it holds onto the sauce beautifully.
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Cook spaghetti: Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve a bit of that precious pasta water.
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Heat oil: In a large skillet or saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium heat. This sets the stage for our flavorful sauce, ensuring that every ingredient gets a warm embrace.
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Sauté vegetables: Toss in the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and start to build a fragrant base. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds to release all that delicious aroma.
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Brown beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it turns a delightful golden-brown, around 5–7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, don’t hesitate to drain it for a healthier dish.
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Add wine: If you’re using red wine, pour it in now. Let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced—a fantastic way to deepen the flavors!
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Combine sauce ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook for about 15–20 minutes. This is where the magic happens; stir occasionally and add some reserved pasta water if the sauce thickens too much.
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Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the Bolognese sauce until everything is well coated. You’ll want to see every noodle glistening with that rich sauce.
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Plate it up: Serve the spaghetti on plates, garnishing with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The colors will make this dish even more irresistible!
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Enjoy hot: Serve your Spaghetti Bolognese hot, and watch the smiles grow as everyone takes their first bite!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Spaghetti Bolognese Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this beloved dish to your preferences!
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Turkey Swap: Substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter, leaner version that still packs flavor.
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Veggie Delight: Replace meat with diced mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils for a hearty plant-based twist that’s satisfying and nutritious.
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Pasta Alternatives: Use whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a rich, decadent sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
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Herb Punch: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a wonderful fragrance and complexity to the sauce—try using them alongside or instead of dried herbs!
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Spice it Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a zesty kick that elevates the flavor profile.
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Tomato Upgrade: Swap crushed tomatoes for roasted or sun-dried tomatoes to deepen the sauce’s sweetness and add a unique twist.
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Wine Substitute: If you’re cooking for kids or avoiding alcohol, you can use vegetable broth or grape juice instead of red wine for richness without the buzz.
Make Ahead Options
These Spaghetti Bolognese are perfect for busy weeknights and can save you valuable time! You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance by cooking it as directed and allowing it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for refrigeration. To prevent the sauce from thickening too much, feel free to add a splash of water when reheating. The spaghetti can also be cooked up to 24 hours ahead; just toss it in a little olive oil to keep it from sticking together. When it’s time to serve, simply heat the sauce gently on the stove while warming the spaghetti in hot water, then combine everything for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Spaghetti Bolognese
Fridge: Store leftover Spaghetti Bolognese in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it has cooled completely before sealing to preserve its flavor and quality.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Spaghetti Bolognese in portions in freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months, allowing for easy weeknight meals.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a saucepan on low heat, adding a splash of pasta water to restore its creamy texture. Additionally, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Airtight Packaging: Wrap or cover the containers tightly to prevent freezer burn and maintain the delicious taste of your homemade Bolognese sauce.
What to Serve with Spaghetti Bolognese?
Creating the perfect meal is a delight when you pair the hearty goodness of Bolognese with these delicious accompaniments.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, crispy texture of garlic bread complements the rich sauce beautifully, perfect for mopping up every drop.
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Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch alongside the creamy dressing, balancing the richness of the spaghetti.
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Roasted Vegetables: Tossed with olive oil and herbs, roasted vegetables provide a colorful, nutritious side that enhances the meal without overwhelming it.
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Homemade Focaccia: Soft and fragrant focaccia invites your guests to savor every morsel, making each bite of Spaghetti Bolognese even more enjoyable.
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Red Wine: A hearty red wine, like Chianti, deepens the flavors of your meal and creates a comforting dining experience, perfect for special occasions.
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Tiramisu: To end on a sweet note, this Italian classic offers a delightful coffee flavor that pairs exquisitely with the savory notes of your main dish.
Imagine dimming the lights, pulling your loved ones close, and sitting around the table, savoring every delightful bite of this meal together.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For your Spaghetti Bolognese, always start with a generous amount of salted water for boiling the spaghetti to enhance its flavor.
- Remember to stir the pasta occasionally while cooking to prevent it from sticking together.
- When browning the ground beef, ensure it reaches a nice golden color for maximum flavor, and drain excess fat afterward to keep the dish lighter.
- For the sauce, simmering it for the full 15–20 minutes allows flavors to develop beautifully, so resist the urge to rush this step.
Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for my Spaghetti Bolognese?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, opt for ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. The ground beef should be fresh, with a nice amount of marbling for richness. Look for bright, crisp vegetables without blemishes—especially onions that should feel firm and onions without dark spots. Carrots should be vibrant in color, while celery should snap when bent, indicating freshness.
What is the best way to store leftover Spaghetti Bolognese?
Very! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Ensure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to retain its flavors. If you want to enjoy it later, that’s where the freezer comes in!
Can I freeze my Spaghetti Bolognese? How?
Of course! To freeze your Spaghetti Bolognese, do the following: first, allow it to cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. Label the containers with the date, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
What can I do if my Bolognese sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is a bit thicker than desired, don’t worry—adding a splash of reserved pasta water can work wonders. Simply add a couple of tablespoons of the warm water into the sauce while stirring until you achieve the desired consistency. This not only thins the sauce but helps it adhere beautifully to the spaghetti, creating that heavenly coating.
Is this Spaghetti Bolognese recipe suitable for people with gluten intolerance?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the traditional spaghetti with gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn. Just ensure to look for a certified gluten-free brand to avoid cross-contamination. It’s just as tasty, and everyone can enjoy a hearty plate of Bolognese!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Very! You can easily turn your Spaghetti Bolognese into a vegetarian delight by substituting the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Increase the flavor with some extra herbs and spices. Cook down finely chopped mushrooms until browned, then follow the same method as the original recipe, and your veggie friends will be just as impressed!
Spaghetti Bolognese
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti ensures that each bite is perfectly al dente when cooked.
- 1 lb ground beef a hearty base that adds depth and richness to your Bolognese.
- 1 medium onion (chopped) caramelizes beautifully, enhancing the sauce's flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) infuses a delightful aroma and zest.
- 1 carrot (finely chopped) brings a touch of sweetness and extra nutrition.
- 1 stalk celery (finely chopped) adds a subtle crunch and earthy flavor.
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes serves as the heart of the sauce, giving it that rich red color.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional) adds complexity, but feel free to omit for a family-friendly dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano imparts a warm, herbaceous note to your sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil complements the tomatoes with a fragrant hint of sweetness.
- Salt and pepper (to taste) essential for balancing the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil helps in sautéing the vegetables, adding a luscious richness.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving) elevates the dish with a savory finish.
Method
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, but be sure to reserve a bit of that precious pasta water.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium heat.
- Toss in the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and start to build a fragrant base. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it turns a delightful golden-brown, around 5–7 minutes.
- If you’re using red wine, pour it in now. Let it simmer for about 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook for about 15–20 minutes.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti into the Bolognese sauce until everything is well coated.
- Serve the spaghetti on plates, garnishing with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve your Spaghetti Bolognese hot.
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