Description
A timeless Italian pasta dish featuring a rich and hearty meat sauce simmered with tomatoes, herbs, and aromatic vegetables. This classic spaghetti Bolognese is a family favorite perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup whole milk or cream
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5–6 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Then add crushed tomatoes and red wine (if using).
- Season with oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the milk or cream during the last 5 minutes of cooking to make the sauce rich and smooth.
- Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Serve the sauce over spaghetti and top with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for 3 months.
- For extra depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of sugar.
- Use a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor.
- Gluten-free pasta works well as a substitute.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 68g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 65mg