Name: Spaghetti Bolognese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1/4 cup tomato paste; 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 12 oz spaghetti; Fresh basil, for garnish; Freshly grated Parmesan, for garnish

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that is loved around the world for its hearty flavors and comforting nature. With a rich, savory meat sauce, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or a weekend treat. The combination of ground beef or turkey with aromatic vegetables, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning creates a sauce that clings perfectly to the al dente spaghetti. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving something delicious, Spaghetti Bolognese is always a reliable go-to dish that brings satisfaction with every bite.

Ingredients:

For the Bolognese Sauce:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Spaghetti:

12 oz spaghetti

For Garnishing:

Fresh basil, for garnish
Freshly grated Parmesan, for garnish

Preparation:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery to the pan.
Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. These vegetables will provide the foundation for a rich sauce, adding sweetness and depth to the flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

Once the vegetables are softened, add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet.
Cook the meat over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to infuse the meat with flavor. If you’re using turkey, it may release less fat, so you might need to add a little more olive oil to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste into the meat mixture.
Pour in the broth (beef or vegetable) and bring the sauce to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken as it cooks, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Taste the sauce during the simmering process and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes.
Drain the spaghetti and set it aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water if you need to thin out the sauce later.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Once both the spaghetti and sauce are ready, toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the Bolognese sauce.
If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Toss until the spaghetti is fully coated in the rich sauce.
Serve the Bolognese spaghetti in bowls, garnishing with fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Cooking Notes:

This Bolognese sauce improves in flavor the longer it simmers, so if you have time, let it cook for an additional 20-30 minutes for an even richer taste.
Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
For added richness, you can stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream at the end of cooking for a creamy Bolognese.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook the sauce uncovered for a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Spaghetti Bolognese with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish. A glass of chilled white wine like Chardonnay or a sparkling water would complement the flavors perfectly.
For a more indulgent meal, top with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Tips:

You can make this sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat it gently on the stove when ready to serve.
For a more authentic touch, consider using fresh herbs like thyme or oregano instead of dried Italian seasoning. Fresh basil is also a wonderful addition to the sauce.
If you’re cooking for a crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled. Just make sure you have a large enough pot to handle the increased ingredients.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs:

Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?

Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a great option for a healthier version of this dish. It adds fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Bolognese sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

What other vegetables can I add to the sauce?

You can include bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients. Just be sure to chop them finely so they cook evenly.

Conclusion:

Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless, comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a special family meal. With its rich and hearty meat sauce, this dish provides a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. The combination of tender spaghetti, a savory Bolognese sauce, and freshly grated Parmesan is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.

Spaghetti Bolognese

Author: Imili Johnson
Total Time: 40 minutes

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