Introduction
Spaghetti Bolognese is one of those timeless dishes that feels comforting, familiar, and deeply satisfying every single time it is served. With its rich meat sauce, slow-simmered tomatoes, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, it strikes the ideal balance between simplicity and depth of flavour. This is the kind of meal that works just as well for a relaxed family dinner as it does for feeding guests. I often turn to this recipe when I want something dependable that fills the kitchen with warmth and aroma. The sauce develops beautifully as it cooks, becoming rich, savoury, and full-bodied without being heavy. Served with pasta and a sprinkle of cheese, this classic spaghetti bolognese is a recipe that never goes out of style and always delivers comfort in every bite.
Print
Spaghetti Bolognese: A Classic, Hearty Pasta Everyone Loves
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian-inspired pasta dish made with spaghetti tossed in a rich, slow-simmered meat sauce of ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
- 400 g spaghetti
- 500 g ground beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 400 g canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 240 ml beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 50 g grated parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrot, and celery and sauté until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve sauce over cooked spaghetti and top with grated parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Simmer longer for deeper flavor.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey.
- Serve with garlic bread or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is hearty, flavourful, and made with everyday ingredients. It is easy to prepare, freezes well, and tastes even better the next day. The sauce is rich without being complicated, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced home cooks.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Spaghetti
Spaghetti is the classic pasta choice for bolognese, holding the sauce well while remaining light and tender.
Ground Beef
Ground beef forms the base of the sauce, providing richness, depth, and a hearty texture.
Onion
Onion adds sweetness and builds a strong flavour foundation for the sauce.
Garlic
Garlic enhances the savoury notes and adds aroma.
Carrot
Carrot adds subtle sweetness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Celery
Celery contributes mild earthiness and depth to the sauce.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used for sautéing and helps develop flavour.
Tomato Paste
Tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavour and adds richness.
Crushed Tomatoes
Crushed tomatoes create the body of the sauce and give it a smooth texture.
Beef Broth
Beef broth adds depth and prevents the sauce from becoming too thick.
Italian Seasoning
Italian seasoning brings classic herb flavours that complement the meat and tomatoes.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavours in the sauce.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds gentle warmth and balance.
Milk
Milk softens the acidity of the tomatoes and creates a smoother, richer sauce.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savoury finish when served.
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery, cooking until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt and black pepper.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a minute to deepen flavour. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and milk.
Reduce heat and simmer gently for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavours meld.
Serve the sauce over spaghetti and finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately four to six people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 35–40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover bolognese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Variations and Customizations
Spaghetti Bolognese is very adaptable. Ground pork or a mix of meats can be used for extra richness. I have also prepared this recipe with ground turkey for a lighter version, which still delivered excellent flavour.
For added depth, a splash of cream or a small amount of red wine can be added during simmering. Vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini can be finely chopped and added for extra nutrition. You can also serve the sauce over different pasta shapes or even with mashed potatoes for a comforting variation. These adjustments allow flexibility while keeping the dish classic and satisfying.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish provides protein from beef, carbohydrates from pasta, and essential nutrients from vegetables. Using lean beef and whole wheat pasta can improve nutritional balance. Portion size can be adjusted to suit dietary needs.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Low and Slow Simmering
Allow the sauce to simmer gently to develop deep flavour.
Season Gradually
Taste and adjust seasoning as the sauce cooks.
Finish with Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavour and texture.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
Can I freeze spaghetti bolognese?
Yes, the sauce freezes very well.
What pasta works best?
Spaghetti is classic, but tagliatelle or penne work well.
Is milk necessary?
Milk softens acidity but can be omitted if preferred.
Can I add wine?
Yes, a small amount adds depth.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer uncovered until reduced to desired thickness.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, substitute lentils or plant-based mince.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavours are mild and familiar.
What cheese works best?
Parmesan is ideal, but pecorino also works.
Does this reheat well?
Yes, it reheats beautifully.
Conclusion
Spaghetti Bolognese is a comforting, classic dish that delivers rich flavour with simple ingredients and straightforward preparation. Its versatility, make-ahead convenience, and universal appeal make it a staple in home kitchens around the world. Whether served fresh or reheated the next day, this timeless pasta recipe never fails to satisfy.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!