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Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti Bolognese
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Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian-inspired dish featuring a rich, savory meat sauce served over tender spaghetti pasta. This comforting and flavorful meal is quick to prepare, family-friendly, and easily customizable to suit various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, finely chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can replace with beef broth)
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed or diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)
  • 1 tsp dried basil (or 1 tbsp fresh)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Pasta and Garnish

  • 12 oz spaghetti pasta
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Extra olive oil for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Finely chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to form the soffritto base, which adds deep flavor and subtle sweetness to the sauce.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or saucepan. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon to avoid clumps and develop savory flavors.
  4. Deglaze and Add Liquids: Pour in the red wine if using, scraping the pan bottom to lift caramelized bits. Let it reduce slightly, then stir in canned tomatoes, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
  5. Simmer the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors and thicken to the perfect Bolognese consistency.
  6. Cook the Spaghetti: Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  7. Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce or serve the sauce ladled over the pasta. Finish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and optional fresh herbs and olive oil drizzle.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic and herbs for brighter, more vibrant flavors.
  • Don’t rush the simmering step; slow cooking deepens the sauce’s flavor and improves texture.
  • Ensure the meat is well browned but avoid overcrowding the pan for the best savory notes.
  • Reserve some pasta water before draining to loosen the sauce if needed, helping it cling better to the pasta.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture, as pasta absorbs sauce quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spaghetti Bolognese, Italian pasta, meat sauce, family meal, easy dinner, classic recipe

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/spaghetti-bolognese/