Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that has won the hearts of many. It’s simple to make, delicious, and comforting. This pasta dish features a rich meat sauce that pairs perfectly with spaghetti, making it a family favorite.
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Why Make This Recipe
Making Spaghetti Bolognese is a great way to bring everyone together at the dinner table. It requires just a few ingredients, and the steps are easy to follow. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a regular weekday meal, this recipe is sure to please. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce basic cooking skills and explore flavors.
How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese
To make Spaghetti Bolognese, you need to follow some simple steps. Here’s a quick guide.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 400g ground beef
- 400g canned tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Spaghetti for serving
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 20-30 minutes.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Serve the Bolognese sauce over the cooked spaghetti and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Serve Spaghetti Bolognese
Serve Spaghetti Bolognese hot, right from the pot. Place the sauce over a generous helping of cooked spaghetti on each plate. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. A side of garlic bread or a fresh salad pairs well with it too!
How to Store Spaghetti Bolognese
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The sauce will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the sauce for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Spaghetti Bolognese
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- If you like, add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrition.
- Let the sauce simmer longer for a richer taste.
- Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version of Spaghetti Bolognese by replacing the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. This keeps the dish hearty while catering to different diets and preferences.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork if you prefer.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer and allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Q: What if I don’t like Parmesan cheese?
A: You can skip the cheese or use a different topping, like grated mozzarella or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Spaghetti Bolognese
Ingredients
For the sauce
- 1.5 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 400 g ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred
- 400 g canned tomatoes Diced or crushed tomatoes work well
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste Salt and pepper
For serving
- 400 g spaghetti Cook according to package instructions
- to taste grated Parmesan cheese Optional topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
Cooking the sauce
- Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 20-30 minutes.
Cooking spaghetti
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
Serving
- Serve the Bolognese sauce over the cooked spaghetti and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
