Best Homemade Spaghetti Bolognese: Easy Recipe

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There's nothing quite like a comforting plate of homemade spaghetti bolognese. This classic Italian dish is a family favorite for a reason – it’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make from scratch. Forget the jarred sauces; with just a few fresh ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a bolognese sauce that's far superior.

Why This Bolognese Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because it focuses on building deep, rich flavors. The key is patience. Allowing the sauce to simmer slowly for a couple of hours develops a complexity that you just can't achieve with a quick cook. Plus, the combination of ground meat, vegetables, and a touch of cream creates a perfectly balanced and satisfying meal.

Ingredients You'll Need

  • 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, but recommended)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef (or meat mixture) to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, red wine (if using), beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours, or up to 4 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
  5. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream during the last 15 minutes of simmering. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain.
  7. Serve: Serve the spaghetti topped with the bolognese sauce and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Perfect Bolognese

  • Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the flavor of the sauce. Opt for good quality ground meat and canned tomatoes.
  • Don't Rush the Simmer: The long simmering time is crucial for developing the rich flavor of the bolognese. Don't be tempted to shorten it.
  • Add a Touch of Milk: Some cooks like to add a splash of milk to the sauce during the simmering process for extra richness. This is optional, but worth trying.
  • Serve with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Variations to Try

  • Vegetarian Bolognese: Substitute the ground meat with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
  • Spicy Bolognese: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
  • Different Meats: Experiment with different types of ground meat, such as ground lamb or veal.

Serving Suggestions

Besides serving over spaghetti, bolognese sauce is also delicious served with:

  • Pappardelle or other wide pasta shapes
  • Gnocchi
  • Polenta
  • As a filling for lasagna

Make Ahead and Storage

Bolognese sauce is a great make-ahead dish. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Call to Action

Ready to try this amazing homemade spaghetti bolognese recipe? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying meal. Don't forget to share your creation with friends and family – they'll be impressed!