Spaghetti Bolognese | Classic Meat Sauce Pasta Dinner
Spaghetti Bolognese, an iconic dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, brings together a medley of savory ingredients into a comforting sauce that wraps beautifully around your favorite pasta. This classic meat sauce is rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor, making it a dinner option that pleases both family and friends. There’s just something magical about the way the ground beef mingles with ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a hint of red wine. It creates a layered depth of flavor that elevates a simple pasta dish into something truly special.
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My first experience with Spaghetti Bolognese happened during a cozy night in with friends—laughter filled the air as we gathered around the table. I remember the moment when everyone took their first bite; their smiles said it all. This recipe is incredibly forgiving, budget-friendly, and quick to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the wonderful world of homemade Spaghetti Bolognese!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With only 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of simmering, you can have this meal on the table in about an hour.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet sautéed onions, garlic, and perfectly seasoned ground beef creates a sauce that’s truly mouthwatering.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan, and it’s not just a meal; it’s a feast for the eyes.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Adjust this recipe with alternative proteins, gluten-free pasta, or even plant-based substitutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps to sauté the onions and garlic, bringing out their flavors. Any light oil can work, but olive oil adds a lovely depth.
- 1 cup (140 g) finely chopped yellow onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and texture to the sauce. Sub with a shallot for a more delicate flavor.
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic punch. If fresh isn’t available, use pre-minced garlic, but decrease the quantity slightly.
- 1 lb (453 g) ground beef (85 or 90%): Ground beef is traditional for Bolognese. You could also use bulk Italian sausage for a spicy kick.
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt: Essential for flavor enhancement. Adjust based on your dietary needs.
- ¼ teaspoon cracked pepper: Freshly ground black pepper provides a nice heat backdrop for the flavors.
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper: Adds a gentle kick, but feel free to leave it out if you prefer a milder sauce.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: This rich concentrated tomato gives a depth of flavor. Avoid substituting with ketchup as it alters the taste.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes. You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute.
- ⅓ cup (78 ml) dry red wine: This ingredient is vital for creating a rich, complex flavor. If preferred, replace it with chicken, beef, or vegetable broth.
- ¼ cup (60 ml) water: This helps to loosen the sauce for cooking.
- 28 oz (794 g) canned whole peeled tomatoes: Must use high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. Crush them as you add them to the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons dried basil or 10 torn basil leaves: Fresh herbs are lovely if available, but dried works just as well.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds brightness. Fresh parsley can substitute for a fresher taste.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: This herb gives an earthy flavor that complements the dish nicely.
- 1 dried bay leaf: Important for depth; remember to remove it before serving.
- 8-12 oz (226-340 g) pasta for serving: I recommend spaghetti—it’s classic! Feel free to swap with gluten-free pasta if needed.
How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese | Classic Meat Sauce Pasta Dinner
Heat Oil: In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it begins to shimmer, you’re ready for the next step.
Sauté Onions: Add 1 cup of finely chopped yellow onion to the pan and sauté until it softens, about 3 minutes. You’re looking for a translucent appearance.
Add Garlic: Toss in 2 tablespoons of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Keep a close eye; burnt garlic can turn bitter!
Cook Beef: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the onion and garlic mixture. Sprinkle ¾ teaspoon of fine sea salt, ¼ teaspoon cracked pepper, and ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper on top. Cook, crumbling the beef until it’s nicely browned. If there’s excess grease, drain it off.
Incorporate Tomato Paste: Mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, stirring constantly until the tomato paste caramelizes, about 1-2 minutes. Caramelization brings out those deeper flavors that make this sauce special.
Add Wine: Drizzle in ⅓ cup of dry red wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Let it reduce by half—this should take around 3-5 minutes—until the strong alcohol smell has lightened.
Add Tomatoes: Stir in ¼ cup of water and 28 oz of canned whole peeled tomatoes. Use a wooden spoon to break down the tomatoes as you cook. You want a thick, saucy consistency.
Season: Add 2 teaspoons of dried basil (or 10 torn basil leaves), 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 dried bay leaf. Stir until everything’s mixed well, ensuring the bay leaf is submerged. Lower the heat for a gentle simmer; let it cook for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally and enjoy the bubbling goodness.
Cook Pasta: As the sauce simmers, start cooking 8-12 oz of your chosen pasta according to the package instructions. When the pasta is al dente, you can serve the meat sauce poured over it or mix it in.
Combine & Serve: If mixing, retain ¼ cup of the pasta water before draining the rest. Mix the pasta with the meat sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling beautifully. Serve topped with fresh Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Storing & Reheating
To store Spaghetti Bolognese, let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours or in the fridge for up to 4 days. For long-term storage, freeze the meat sauce in a freezer-safe container or bags for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth if necessary to restore its creamy consistency.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcrowding the pan while browning the ground beef; this could result in steaming instead of browning.
- Use room temperature ingredients when possible for more even cooking.
- If your sauce seems too acidic, a pinch more sugar can help mellow the flavors.
- To enhance the flavor even further, let your sauce simmer longer—up to an hour if time permits.
- Always taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
- For a heartier sauce, toss in chopped carrots or celery when starting with the onions.
There’s something truly special about a classic bowl of Spaghetti Bolognese. It’s comforting and satisfying, perfect for gatherings and special occasions. This recipe is simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough to wow guests. Feel free to experiment with herbs or additional vegetables to make it your own. Cooking shouldn’t be a chore but rather an enjoyable journey. So grab your ingredients, clear a space in your kitchen, and let the aromatic scents take you back to those cozy dinner gatherings. Enjoy every bite!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make Spaghetti Bolognese in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead can enhance the flavors. Just let it cool completely and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.
What kind of pasta is best for Bolognese?
While spaghetti is traditional, other pastas like fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni also work wonderfully. It all depends on your preference and what you have on hand.
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, turkey or even chicken can be great alternatives! Just keep the cooking time in mind, as leaner meats may cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.
How can I thicken my Bolognese sauce?
If your sauce is too thin, simply let it simmer uncovered for a while longer. Alternatively, you can mix in a slurry of cornstarch with a bit of water to thicken it quickly.
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📖 Recipe Card
Spaghetti Bolognese | Classic Meat Sauce Pasta Dinner
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Spaghetti Bolognese features a classic meat sauce with irresistible flavor, easy preparation, and key ingredients like ground beef and tomatoes—perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 lb ground beef 85 or 90%
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon cracked pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup dry red wine
- ¼ cup water
- 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 dried bay leaf
- 8–12 oz pasta for serving
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add ground beef, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and crushed pepper. Cook until browned, draining excess grease if needed.
- Mix in tomato paste and sugar, cooking until the paste is browned, about 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly drizzle in red wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen browned bits. Cook until reduced by half, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add water and tomatoes, breaking them up as they cook.
- Stir in basil, parsley, oregano, and the bay leaf. Simmer for at least 30 minutes with an offset lid, stirring occasionally.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Serve the sauce over the pasta or mix them together after draining and reserving some pasta water.
- Top with parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
Feel free to substitute ground beef with bulk Italian sausage for a different flavor.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer for longer, uncovered.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
