Spaghetti Bolognese is a beloved Italian dish made with rich tomato sauce, minced meat, and a blend of aromatic herbs. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

This comforting dish pairs perfectly with spaghetti, making it a go-to comfort food around the world. The savory sauce is simmered for hours, allowing all the flavors to develop, resulting in a deliciously satisfying meal.

When preparing Spaghetti Bolognese at home, the mix of ground meat, tomatoes, and spices always fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. It’s a rewarding yet straightforward dish to prepare, and the layers of flavor make it a crowd-pleaser. The key is to let it simmer for a long time, which brings out the depth of taste and makes every bite delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Bolognese

This Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is a perfect balance of flavors, making every bite delightful. The rich, savory sauce complements the tender pasta, giving you a satisfying meal with every forkful.

What makes this recipe stand out is the blend of herbs and spices. The mix of garlic, oregano, and basil creates a fresh and aromatic flavor that you’ll love in each bite of spaghetti.

The versatility of this dish is another reason it’s a favorite. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, whether you prefer more meat, vegetables, or a little extra spice. It’s easy to customize.

This Spaghetti Bolognese is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, everyone will love the comforting, classic flavors. It’s a dish that never disappoints!

Pre-preparation of Spaghetti Bolognese

Before you begin cooking, it’s essential to prep your ingredients. Start by finely chopping the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. These vegetables form the base of your Bolognese sauce, giving it rich flavor. You can also prepare your spices, such as oregano, basil, and bay leaves, in advance. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, chop them as well. Having everything prepped will help you move quickly through the cooking process.

How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese

Ingredients

Now, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make Spaghetti Bolognese:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork (or a combination of both)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup red wine (optional, but recommended)
• 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1-2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your delicious Spaghetti Bolognese:

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Add the finely chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or pork to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks.
4. Deglaze the Pan: If you’re using red wine, add it to the pan and let it cook off for about 2 minutes, scraping any bits off the bottom of the pan.
5. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and bay leaves—season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add Milk or Cream: Pour in the milk or cream to add richness to the sauce. Stir and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Boil the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions, which typically takes 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
8. Serve: Place the cooked spaghetti on plates and top with the Bolognese sauce. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition and Health Benefits of Spaghetti Bolognese

Nutrition Benefits:

• Rich in Protein: Ground meat (usually beef or turkey) in the Bolognese sauce provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
• High in Fiber: The tomatoes and vegetables in the sauce provide a decent amount of fiber, which aids digestion and promotes healthy bowel movements.
• Packed with Vitamins: The sauce is rich in vitamins, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K, which support immune health and overall well-being.
• Mineral Content: Spaghetti Bolognese provides a good amount of essential minerals, including iron and zinc, which play a crucial role in energy production and immune function.
• Complex Carbs from Pasta: Whole-wheat or regular spaghetti provides a steady release of energy, helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.

Health Benefits:

• Supports Heart Health: Consuming lean meat or plant-based alternatives can help lower saturated fat intake, thereby supporting a healthy heart. The vegetables add antioxidants that help protect the heart.
• Promotes Muscle Growth: Thanks to the protein-rich combination of meat and pasta, Spaghetti Bolognese is ideal for muscle repair and growth, making it a great post-workout meal.
• Boosts Immunity: The tomatoes, garlic, and herbs in the sauce are rich in antioxidants and possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can help strengthen the immune system.
• Helps with Weight Management: The fiber from vegetables and whole-grain pasta can help you feel full for longer, aiding in controlling hunger and supporting healthy weight management.
• Improves Digestive Health: The fiber in both the vegetables and whole wheat pasta helps keep the digestive system running smoothly, reducing the risk of constipation.

Spaghetti Bolognese Variation

While the traditional Spaghetti Bolognese uses ground beef, variations of this dish can be made with ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian version. You can also add red wine or a splash of milk to the sauce for a richer flavor. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or bay leaves, to create your unique twist on this classic recipe.

How to Serve Spaghetti Bolognese

To serve Spaghetti Bolognese, first cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Spoon a generous amount of Bolognese sauce over the top of the spaghetti. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra flavor boost.

For an added touch, serve the dish with a side of garlic bread or a light salad. This makes the meal more filling and enhances the overall experience. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave your guests wanting more.

Storage Options

You can store leftover Spaghetti Bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For more extended storage, freeze the sauce in portions. This allows you to enjoy a quick meal later. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stove until warmed through.

FAQs About Spaghetti Bolognese

How long does it take to cook Spaghetti Bolognese?

It typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour to cook Spaghetti Bolognese. This includes time for both cooking the sauce and boiling the pasta.

Can I use other types of meat in Spaghetti Bolognese?

Yes, you can use other meats, such as turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options. The sauce will still retain its rich flavor.

Can I make Spaghetti Bolognese ahead of time?

Yes, Spaghetti Bolognese can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. It tastes better the next day when the flavors have had more time to develop.

Is Spaghetti Bolognese healthy?

Spaghetti Bolognese can be a healthy option if prepared with lean meat and a generous amount of vegetables. You can also use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.