In need of a tasty pasta dish that will leave your taste buds craving for more? Look no further than this delicious Spaghetti Bolognese recipe! This classic Italian dish features al dente spaghetti, smothered in a rich and flavorful meat sauce that combines the perfect blend of tomatoes, ground beef, and seasonings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this simple yet satisfying recipe is sure to impress. So grab your apron and get ready to whip up a plate of mouthwatering Spaghetti Bolognese that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
To make a delicious spaghetti bolognese, you will need the following ingredients:
Ground beef
Ground beef is the star of the show in the bolognese sauce. It adds a rich and hearty flavor to the dish. Look for lean ground beef for a healthier option.
Onion
Onions provide a wonderful depth of flavor to the sauce. They are an essential ingredient in many Italian dishes, including spaghetti bolognese.
Garlic
Garlic adds a lovely aromatic touch to the sauce. It intensifies the flavors and gives the dish its distinct taste.
Carrot
Carrots are not traditionally found in bolognese sauce, but they add a hint of sweetness and depth to the sauce. Plus, they provide a pop of color to the dish.
Sauce
The sauce is the heart and soul of spaghetti bolognese. Here’s what you need for the perfect sauce:
Tomato paste
Tomato paste is used to thicken the sauce and enhance its flavor. It adds a rich, concentrated tomato taste that complements the other ingredients.
Crushed tomatoes
Crushed tomatoes provide the bulk of the sauce. They offer a smooth and velvety texture, making every bite of spaghetti coated in delicious tomato goodness.
Beef broth
Beef broth adds depth and richness to the sauce. It infuses the dish with a savory flavor that complements the meat and vegetables.
Seasonings
The right blend of seasonings can make or break a spaghetti bolognese. Here’s what you’ll need:
Dried oregano
Dried oregano adds an earthy and slightly bitter flavor to the sauce. It is a classic Italian herb that pairs perfectly with tomatoes and meat.
Dried basil
Dried basil contributes a subtle sweetness to the sauce. It adds a delicate herbal note that complements the other ingredients.
Salt and pepper
Salt and pepper are essential in any dish. They help to season and balance the flavors of the sauce. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Other Ingredients
To complete your spaghetti bolognese masterpiece, you’ll need a few more ingredients:
Spaghetti
Spaghetti is the pasta of choice for this dish. Its long, thin shape is perfect for capturing the delicious sauce. Cook it until it’s al dente for the perfect texture.
Parmesan cheese
Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over your spaghetti bolognese for an extra burst of flavor. It adds a salty and nutty taste that elevates the dish.
Fresh basil leaves
Garnish your plate of spaghetti bolognese with fresh basil leaves. They add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the dish.
Instructions
Now that you have gathered all your ingredients, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to make a delicious spaghetti bolognese:
Step 1: Sauté the vegetables
Start by heating a large saucepan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, and once it’s hot, sauté the onions, garlic, and carrots until they soften and become fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef
Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the pan and add the ground beef to the center. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink. Be sure to stir and mix the vegetables with the beef as it cooks.
Step 3: Add the sauce and seasonings
Pour in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Then, add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir and let the sauce simmer.
Simmering
Step 4: Simmer the sauce
Cover the saucepan and let the sauce simmer over low heat for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich and robust taste. If you have the time, you can let it simmer for even longer for an even more flavorful sauce.
Step 5: Cook the spaghetti
While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the boiling water for added flavor. Cook the pasta until it is al dente, firm to the bite. Drain it well once cooked.
Serving
Step 6: Serve the spaghetti bolognese
To serve, place a portion of cooked spaghetti onto a plate or bowl. Ladle a generous amount of the bolognese sauce on top of the pasta, ensuring that each strand is coated with the delicious sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and enjoy
Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves over the plated spaghetti bolognese. The cheese will melt slightly from the heat of the sauce, creating a creamy and savory finishing touch. Grab a fork, dig in, and savor the heavenly combination of flavors!
Tips
Here are some tips to enhance your spaghetti bolognese experience:
Use lean ground beef
Opt for lean ground beef to keep your dish lighter and healthier. It will still provide ample flavor without excessive grease.
Add red wine for depth of flavor
For an extra layer of richness and complexity, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce. It adds a tangy, fruity note that complements the meat and tomatoes beautifully.
Let the sauce simmer for longer for a richer taste
While the minimum simmering time is 30 minutes, allowing the sauce to simmer for a longer period can result in a more intense and flavorful dish. Consider simmering for an hour or longer if time permits.
Variations
Spaghetti bolognese is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
Vegetarian option
Swap the ground beef for plant-based alternatives, such as textured vegetable protein or lentils, to create a delicious vegetarian version of spaghetti bolognese. The sauce will still be packed with flavor and hearty goodness.
Use different types of pasta
While spaghetti is the traditional choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of pasta. Try using fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni to change up the texture and presentation of the dish.
Add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers
For an added burst of flavor and texture, consider adding vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to your bolognese sauce. They will elevate the dish and provide extra nutrients.
Conclusion
Spaghetti bolognese is a timeless classic that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. This recipe allows you to savor the rich flavors of the meaty sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and the delightful garnishes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is bound to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and indulge in the irresistible goodness of spaghetti bolognese. Bon appétit!