Spaghetti Bolognese is one of those comforting classics that never goes out of style. With its rich, hearty sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it brings warmth to the table and is loved by both kids and adults. The dish was originated in Italy but has become a household favorite worldwide. It’s not only flavorful but also filling and versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend family gatherings. In this article, you’ll find a complete step-by-step recipe, along with helpful tips, nutritional details, and answers to common questions.
Ingredients of Spaghetti Bolognese with pictures
- Spaghetti pasta
- Ground beef (or mixed beef and pork)
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic
- Carrot
- Celery
- Tomato paste
- Canned tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes)
- Beef broth
- Dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Bay leaf
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Ingredients of Spaghetti Bolognese with Quantities
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti pasta | 400 g (14 oz) |
| Ground beef | 500 g (1 lb) |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Carrot (diced) | 1 medium |
| Celery (diced) | 1 stalk |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp |
| Canned tomatoes | 400 g (14 oz) can |
| Beef broth | 1 cup |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Dried basil | 1 tsp |
| Dried thyme | ½ tsp |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | ½ cup |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 2 tbsp (optional) |
Step by Step Spaghetti Bolognese recipe
-
Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside. -
Prepare the vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened and fragrant. -
Cook the meat
Add ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. -
Add garlic and tomato paste
Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor. -
Build the sauce
Add canned tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. -
Simmer slowly
Lower the heat, cover partially, and let the sauce simmer for 30–40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should thicken and become rich in flavor. -
Season well
Taste the sauce and adjust salt and black pepper to your liking. Remove the bay leaf before serving. -
Combine and serve
Toss the spaghetti with the sauce or serve the sauce on top of the pasta. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and parsley.
Tips & Variations
- For a deeper flavor, add a splash of red wine while cooking the meat.
- If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the tomatoes before adding them.
- Swap beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or fresh chili.
Serving Suggestions
Spaghetti Bolognese pairs beautifully with garlic bread, fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables. A glass of red wine also complements the richness of the dish, making it perfect for a cozy dinner.
Nutritional Info about Spaghetti Bolognese
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 plate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~520 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 58 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
FAQs about Spaghetti Bolognese
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I make this ahead of time? | Yes, the sauce tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. |
| Can I freeze Bolognese sauce? | Absolutely, freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. |
| What pasta works best? | Traditionally spaghetti, but penne, tagliatelle, or fettuccine also work well. |
| Can I make it vegetarian? | Yes, replace meat with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based mince. |
| How can I thicken the sauce? | Let it simmer uncovered for a longer time or add a little tomato paste. |
Benefits of Spaghetti Bolognese
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| High in Protein | Ground beef provides essential protein for muscle growth. |
| Rich in Vitamins & Minerals | Vegetables add vitamin A, C, and potassium. |
| Provides Energy | Pasta offers complex carbohydrates for long-lasting energy. |
| Family-Friendly | A versatile dish enjoyed by kids and adults alike. |
| Balanced Meal Option | Combines protein, carbs, and vegetables in one plate. |
Disadvantages of Spaghetti Bolognese
| Disadvantage | Explanation |
|---|---|
| High in Calories | Can be calorie-dense if eaten in large portions. |
| Contains Saturated Fat | Beef may increase cholesterol if consumed excessively. |
| High Sodium Levels | Processed sauces or added salt can raise sodium intake. |
| Not Suitable for Gluten-Free Diet | Standard spaghetti contains gluten unless substituted. |
| Can Be Heavy for Digestion | A large serving may feel too heavy for some people. |
Conclusion
Spaghetti Bolognese is more than just a meal—it’s comfort in a bowl. With its savory sauce, tender pasta, and rich flavors, it brings people together around the table. Not only is it delicious, but it also offers a balance of nutrients when prepared with wholesome ingredients.
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