Spaghetti Bolognese | Classic Meat Sauce Pasta Dinner is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Picture this: a plate of perfectly cooked spaghetti, twirled with a rich, savory meat sauce that has simmered to perfection, combining the robust flavors of savory beef and the sweet essence of tomatoes. The balance of fragrant herbs makes this dish sing, creating an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen and draws everyone to the table. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together, creating lasting memories.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese | Classic Meat Sauce Pasta Dinner
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Spaghetti Bolognese | Classic Meat Sauce Pasta Dinner

Spaghetti Bolognese | Classic Meat Sauce Pasta Dinner

I still remember the first time I attempted to make this classic dish; I was a bit intimidated but excited to create something so beloved. What I discovered was a simple yet satisfying recipe that quickly became a staple in my home. With a handful of ingredients that you might already have in your pantry, you can whip up this delightful dish without breaking a sweat. Spaghetti Bolognese | Classic Meat Sauce Pasta Dinner is not just a quick fix; it’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed on a casual weekday or dressed up for a dinner party. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just about an hour, perfect for busy nights.
Irresistible Flavor: Rich, hearty sauce with depth from wine and herbs; it’s a flavor lover’s dream!
Eye-Catching Appeal: A vibrant plate of spaghetti topped with a savory, chunky sauce – it’s hard not to dig in.
Flexible Serving: Great for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep; it never disappoints!
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free pasta or leaner meat options.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons olive oil: This high-quality oil adds richness and flavor as you cook the aromatics.
1 cup (140 g) finely chopped yellow onion: Onions provide a sweet base to the sauce; a medium onion is perfect here.
2 tablespoons minced garlic: Garlic brings a warm, fragrant kick to the sauce that’s hard to resist.
1 lb (453 g) ground beef (85 or 90%): Lean ground beef gives the sauce a hearty texture; you could swap with bulk Italian sausage for more flavor.
¾ teaspoon fine sea salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the sauce.
¼ teaspoon cracked pepper: A touch of pepper adds subtle warmth.
⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper: For those who enjoy a little heat, you can adjust this to your liking.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: This concentrated tomato product deepens the sauce flavor brilliantly.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a rounder taste.
⅓ cup (78 ml) dry red wine: This adds depth. If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with beef, chicken, or vegetable broth.
¼ cup (60 ml) water: To help loosen the sauce while simmering.
28 oz (794 g) canned whole peeled tomatoes: These should be of good quality; they will break down beautifully in the sauce.
2 teaspoons dried basil (or 10 torn basil leaves): Fresh basil brings a vibrant flavor, but dried works just fine.
1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a touch of freshness to the sauce.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb in Italian cooking that complements the sauce perfectly.
1 dried bay leaf: Contributes aromatic notes while simmering. Remember to remove it before serving!
8-12 oz (226-340 g) pasta (spaghetti is recommended): A wonderful choice for this hearty meat sauce! Cook according to package directions.

How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese | Classic Meat Sauce Pasta Dinner

Heat Oil: Begin by heating 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers invitingly, you know it’s time to proceed.

Sauté Onions: Add 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion to the pan. Cook it until softened and translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Your kitchen will begin to smell heavenly!

Add Garlic: Stir in 2 tablespoons minced garlic and continue to cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter.

Brown the Beef: Next, introduce 1 lb ground beef into the pan. Sprinkle it with ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt, ¼ teaspoon cracked pepper, and ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper. Cook, crumbling the meat as it browns. You may want to drain excess grease if there’s a lot.

Cook Tomato Paste: Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Allow it to cook while stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the tomato paste caramelizes slightly. This step deepens the sauce’s flavor.

Deglaze with Wine: Gently drizzle in ⅓ cup dry red wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release those flavorful bits. Let it cook until the wine is reduced by half and the strong alcohol smell dissipates, which generally takes about 3-5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients: Pour in ¼ cup water and the 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes. Break the tomatoes up with a wooden spoon to integrate them fully into the sauce.

Add Herbs and Simmer: Toss in 2 teaspoons dried basil, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, and 1 dried bay leaf. Stir until everything is well mixed, then allow the sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes with an offset lid, stirring occasionally for even cooking.

Cook Pasta: While the sauce simmers, start cooking 8-12 oz pasta according to the package instructions. This is a perfect time to get your noodles nice and al dente.

Combine and Serve: When your pasta is ready, you could either serve the meat sauce over it or mix it all together. If mixing, remember to reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining. Add the pasta to the meat sauce along with a splash of the reserved pasta water, stir well, and let it simmer for just a few minutes until the sauce clings beautifully to the noodles.

Garnish: Serve your delicious dish topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

To store any leftovers, let the Spaghetti Bolognese cool to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for later, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a saucepan over low heat or microwave for a quick meal, adding a little water to refresh the texture if necessary, as some flavors may mellow during storage.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcrowding the pan when browning the meat; this can cause the beef to steam instead of sear.
Let your red wine cook long enough to reduce; this enhances the sauce’s depth.
Always taste and adjust seasoning. You might find it needs a touch more salt or sweetness.
If you find your sauce too thick, a little pasta water can loosen it without losing flavor.
Consider adding some chopped vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor.

You now have a delightful Spaghetti Bolognese | Classic Meat Sauce Pasta Dinner that offers comfort and warmth. Each bite bursts with flavors that mingle beautifully together, showcasing the heart of home cooking. Don’t hesitate to play around with the recipe; experiment with different herbs or meats, and make it your own. I hope you gather friends and family around the table, filled with laughter and love while enjoying this delicious dish. Enjoy!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a great lean alternative, offering a lighter taste while still providing a hearty base for your sauce. Just make sure to season well, as these meats can be milder in flavor than beef.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

To store leftovers, let the Spaghetti Bolognese cool completely before putting it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for about 3 days. If you want to freeze it, place it in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors of the sauce develop beautifully when made ahead. Simply prepare the sauce, let it cool, and store it in the fridge or freeze it. You can reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a little water if needed.

How do I make this vegan-friendly?

To make a vegan version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat crumbles. Use vegetable broth instead of red wine, and switch traditional pasta for a vegan pasta option. Adjust seasonings to taste, and you’ll still enjoy a delicious pasta dinner!