Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting meal, look no further than this mouthwatering Spaghetti Bolognese recipe. Packed with rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish is the perfect combination of tender ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a savory tomato sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress both your taste buds and your loved ones. So grab your apron and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

To make a delicious spaghetti bolognese, you will need the following ingredients:

Ground beef

Ground beef serves as the base for the sauce, providing a rich and hearty flavor. Choose a high-quality ground beef, preferably lean, for best results.

Onion

An onion adds a savory and slightly sweet flavor to the sauce. Chop it finely to ensure it cooks evenly.

Garlic

Garlic is the perfect aromatic addition to any bolognese sauce. Mince it before adding it to the saucepan to release its full flavor.

Carrot

A carrot adds a touch of sweetness and a vibrant color to the sauce. Dice it into small pieces to ensure it cooks evenly.

Celery

Celery adds a refreshing and slightly bitter taste to the sauce. Chop it finely to add a subtle crunch to each bite.

Tomato paste

Tomato paste is essential for creating a rich and robust base for the sauce. It adds depth and acidity to the dish.

Canned diced tomatoes

Canned diced tomatoes provide the necessary liquid and acidity for the sauce. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.

Beef broth

Beef broth adds another layer of richness to the sauce. It enhances the savory flavors and helps to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.

Red wine

Red wine brings a delightful depth of flavor to the bolognese sauce. It imparts a slightly tangy and fruity note that complements the other ingredients.

Dried herbs and spices

Dried herbs and spices such as oregano, basil, thyme, and bay leaves are key to achieving that classic Italian bolognese taste. These ingredients add complexity to the sauce and enhance its overall flavor profile.

Preparation

To prepare a mouthwatering spaghetti bolognese, follow these simple steps:

Chop the vegetables

Start by chopping the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery into small, uniform pieces. This ensures that all the ingredients cook evenly in the sauce.

Sauté the vegetables

In a large saucepan over medium heat, sauté the chopped vegetables in olive oil until they soften and become aromatic. This step adds depth and flavor to the sauce.

Brown the ground beef

Add the ground beef to the saucepan with the sautéed vegetables and cook until it is browned and no longer pink. Remember to break up the meat with a spatula to achieve a fine, even texture.

Combine the ingredients

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a minute to bloom its flavor. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes, beef broth, and red wine. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Simmer the sauce

Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and intensify, resulting in a rich and flavorful sauce.

Cook the spaghetti

While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to salt the boiling water for added flavor.

Serve and garnish

Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, it’s time to serve. Spoon the sauce over the cooked spaghetti and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil. Pair it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you customize your spaghetti bolognese recipe:

Choosing the right ground beef

Opt for lean ground beef with a fat content of around 90% lean and 10% fat for a healthier option. You can also mix ground beef with ground pork or veal to add more complexity to the flavor.

Properly browning the meat

To ensure the ground beef browns evenly, break it up with a spatula and cook over medium heat. Be patient and allow the meat to develop a deep brown color to enhance its flavor.

Adding extra vegetables

Feel free to add more vegetables to your sauce, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. It’s a great way to incorporate extra nutrients and flavors into your bolognese.

Customizing the spice blend

Experiment with different dried herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of your bolognese sauce. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat or try using dried rosemary for a unique twist.

Making it vegetarian or vegan

If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan version, replace the ground beef with plant-based alternatives like soy crumbles or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and skip the cheese garnish for a vegan-friendly option.

Storage and Reheating

Spaghetti bolognese makes great leftovers, and it’s easy to store and reheat.

Storing leftover sauce

Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have more sauce than you can consume, consider portioning it into smaller containers for easier reheating.

Freezing for later use

To freeze the sauce, allow it to cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bags. Make sure to remove any excess air to prevent freezer burn. The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating instructions

To reheat the sauce, simply defrost it overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Then, heat it gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also microwave smaller portions, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about spaghetti bolognese:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While spaghetti is the traditional pasta choice for bolognese, you can certainly experiment with other pasta shapes. Fusilli, rigatoni, or penne are great alternatives that hold the sauce well due to their ridges and nooks.

Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe. Just be aware that turkey has a milder flavor, so you may need to adjust the seasonings to taste.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce in advance. In fact, many people believe that letting the sauce sit overnight allows the flavors to develop and meld together even more. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

While canned tomatoes are typically used in bolognese sauce for their consistency and flavor, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Peel, seed, and chop fresh tomatoes before adding them to the sauce. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may result in a slightly lighter and less intense flavor compared to canned tomatoes.

Can I omit the wine?

If you prefer not to use wine in your bolognese sauce, you can omit it. However, keep in mind that wine adds depth and complexity to the flavors. You can substitute it with an equal amount of beef broth or simply leave it out altogether.

How long does spaghetti bolognese last in the fridge?

Spaghetti bolognese will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container or covered tightly with plastic wrap.

Can I use a slow cooker to make this recipe?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker to make spaghetti bolognese. Simply follow the recipe until the step of simmering the sauce on the stovetop. Transfer the sauce to a slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Ensure that the ground beef is fully cooked before transferring it to the slow cooker.