Name: Classic Spaghetti Bolognese (Family Favorite)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion peeled and finely diced; 2 cloves garlic peeled and minced; 1 carrot peeled and finely diced; 3 chestnut mushrooms finely diced; 450 g (1 lb) minced beef (ground beef); 120 ml (1/2 cup) red wine; 3 tbsp tomato puree; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried thyme; 1 tbsp worcestershire sauce; 1 beef stock cube crumbled; 2 x 400 g (2 x 14 oz) tins finely chopped tomatoes; ½ tbsp light brown sugar; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 300 g (10.5 oz) dried spaghetti or fresh pasta; small bunch spring onions (scallions) chopped; grated parmesan

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Classic Spaghetti Bolognese is a dish that holds a special place in many hearts and homes. With its rich, meaty sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s no wonder why this Italian classic has won over families around the globe. You can almost hear the comforting sounds of the kitchen as the garlic sizzles and the tomatoes bubble away while developing their deep, luscious flavor. Each bite transports you to a cozy trattoria, where aroma fills the air and everyone gathers around the table, eager to dig into a hearty meal.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Classic Spaghetti Bolognese (Family Favorite)
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Classic Spaghetti Bolognese (Family Favorite)

Classic Spaghetti Bolognese (Family Favorite)

There’s something undeniably satisfying about making your own sauce from scratch. The way the minced beef marries with the vegetables and herbs creates a depth of flavor that store-bought varieties simply can’t compete with. When making this Classic Spaghetti Bolognese, you’re not just feeding your family; you’re creating memories. With hardly any fuss involved, it’s an easy weeknight dinner or a hearty meal for entertaining guests. I can guarantee that once you taste it, your family will be asking for this dish on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This recipe can easily be whipped up in about 30-35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite is a wonderful mix of savory meat, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, leaving you craving more.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant combination of colors from fresh ingredients makes this dish not only delicious but also visually stunning.
Flexible Serving: Whether it’s a fun family dinner, an impromptu gathering, or meal prep for the week, it fits perfectly into any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: Swap out the minced beef for a plant-based alternative for a delicious vegan version.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables, adding rich flavor. Feel free to use canola oil as an alternative.
1 onion, peeled and finely diced: Onions build a strong foundation for flavor in the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced: Fresh garlic adds a lovely aromatic quality to the dish.
1 carrot, peeled and finely diced: Carrots contribute sweetness and balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
3 chestnut mushrooms, finely diced: Earthy and rich, mushrooms enhance the umami flavor in the sauce; you can substitute with button mushrooms if preferred.
450 g (1 lb) minced beef (ground beef): The beef is the star of this dish, providing richness. A 400 g pack works just as well if that’s all you can find.
120 ml (1/2 cup) red wine: Adds depth; can use chicken stock for a non-alcoholic version.
3 tbsp tomato puree: This concentrated tomato adds robust flavor and thickness to the sauce.
1 tsp dried oregano: An earthy herb that complements the tomatoes nicely.
½ tsp dried thyme: Offers a subtle warmth and extra flavor dimension.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: This tangy sauce enhances the meaty flavors beautifully.
1 beef stock cube, crumbled: Adds savory depth; substitute with vegetable stock cube for a vegetarian option.
2 x 400 g (2 x 14 oz) tins finely chopped tomatoes: The base of the sauce, providing a burst of juicy flavor.
½ tbsp light brown sugar: A pinch of sweetness balances acidity from the tomatoes.
½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the dish.
½ tsp black pepper: A touch of heat; feel free to adjust to your taste.
300 g (10.5 oz) dried spaghetti or fresh pasta: The perfect vehicle for transporting the luscious sauce to your plate.
Small bunch spring onions (scallions), chopped: For garnish, providing a fresh crunch.
Grated parmesan: A sprinkle adds a salty, nutty finish to your dish.

How to Make Classic Spaghetti Bolognese (Family Favorite)

Heat the oil: Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, toss in the finely diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until they soften and become translucent.

Add garlic: Next, introduce the minced garlic to the pan, allowing it to cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can overshadow the dish.

Incorporate carrots and mushrooms: Add the finely diced carrot and chestnut mushrooms, cooking for an extra 2-3 minutes until the veggies have softened. This helps layer the flavors before adding the meat.

Brown the minced beef: Now, it’s time for the star ingredient! Add 450 g minced beef to the pan, breaking it up with your spatula as it cooks. Aim for about 5-6 minutes or until the beef is browned and cooked through, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.

Pour in the wine: Carefully add 120 ml of red wine to the pan, raising the temperature to bring it to a boil. Let it bubble for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce by three-quarters, intensifying its flavor.

Mix remaining ingredients: Stir in 3 tablespoons tomato puree, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, crumbled beef stock cube, the two tins of finely chopped tomatoes, ½ tablespoon light brown sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Bring everything to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low, allowing it to thicken for 15-20 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook 300 g dried spaghetti for about 10-12 minutes until al dente. Fresh pasta will take less time, so keep an eye on it.

Drain and serve: Drain the spaghetti but don’t rinse, as you want the starch to help the sauce stick. Divide the spaghetti among four bowls, spoon the Bolognese generously over the pasta, and garnish with chopped spring onions and a sprinkle of grated parmesan before serving.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Classic Spaghetti Bolognese at room temperature for no more than 2 hours before refrigerating. It will keep safely in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you want to enjoy it later, freeze the sauce in a sealed container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat or in a microwave for 2-3 minutes until hot, though the texture may vary slightly after freezing. You might want to add a dash of water or extra tomato sauce to refresh it.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Ensure the beef is well-browned for the best flavor. If it’s steamed instead, the sauce may taste less rich.
Let the wine reduce properly; it intensifies the flavors significantly.
Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be firm to the bite for the best texture.
Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
For a weeknight shortcut, use good-quality jarred pasta sauce and mix it with the sautéed ingredients.
Prepare the Bolognese sauce in advance and reheat for a quicker dinner on busy nights.

There’s something cozy and heartwarming about serving up a big bowl of Classic Spaghetti Bolognese. Not only does it satisfy cravings for comfort food, but it also brings a sense of conviviality to the table. Making this dish can be a fun family activity, allowing everyone to join in the process and then delight in the fruits of their labor together. Feel free to play with the flavors, adjust the seasoning to your tastes, and most importantly, enjoy this timeless family favorite!

Recipe FAQs

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you find your sauce is too runny, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to evaporate some of the liquid. Adding a slurry made from cornstarch and water can also help thicken it more quickly.

Can I use any ground meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, pork, or even a mix for different flavor profiles. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of meat you choose.

Is there a vegetarian option for Spaghetti Bolognese?

Yes! You can substitute the minced beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a store-bought vegan mince. Cook the lentils separately until tender, then add them when you would normally add the beef.

What can I serve with spaghetti Bolognese?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even some roasted vegetables. A side of crusty bread makes the perfect addition for mopping up any leftover sauce!