Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the rich and hearty flavors of homemade Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce, a classic Italian dish that combines ground meat, savory tomatoes, and aromatic herbs for a comforting meal loved by all. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this versatile sauce pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta and is sure to impress. Elevate your culinary skills and enjoy a taste of Italy right at home.
This Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce recipe is a labor of love that results in a delectable sauce you can cherish. Perfectly seasoned and simmered to perfection, it's homemade goodness you won't want to miss.
A Classic Italian Dish
Spaghetti Bolognese is more than just a meal; it's a comforting reminder of family gatherings and shared laughter. This hearty sauce originates from Bologna, Italy, where it’s referred to as 'ragù alla bolognese.' Traditional recipes may vary, but the essence remains the same—a rich blend of meat and tomatoes, crafted to perfection. Using fresh ingredients and a slow simmer allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a sauce that is elevated yet simple, suitable for both elegant dinners and casual family nights.
This timeless dish can be found on menus around the world, yet making it at home allows you to customize it to your taste. From choosing high-quality meat to adding your favorite herbs, each step can be tailored for a truly personal touch. Whether you enjoy a meat-heavy version or a lighter variant with vegetables, this Spaghetti Bolognese serves as a canvas for culinary creativity.
Versatile Meal Prep
One of the best parts about Spaghetti Bolognese is its versatility as a meal prep option. Prepare a large batch on the weekend, and you will have delicious meals ready for busy weeknights. This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days and can also be frozen for up to three months, making it a perfect time-saver. Simply thaw and reheat, and you'll have a hot, satisfying dinner in no time.
This Bolognese sauce isn't limited to just spaghetti either. Use it as a filling for lasagna, as a topping for baked potatoes, or even as a flavorful addition to stuffed bell peppers. Its rich, savory flavor profile complements various dishes, ensuring you won’t tire of it throughout the week. Meal prepping not only saves time but also helps in maintaining a balanced diet, making it easier to avoid unhealthy takeout options.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 500g ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 400g canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 100ml red wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Enjoy your cooking!
Instructions
Cook the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Tomato and Simmer
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve
Once the sauce has thickened, serve it over cooked spaghetti and garnish with fresh basil.
Your homemade Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce is ready!
Tips for the Perfect Bolognese
To elevate your Spaghetti Bolognese, consider adding fresh herbs like oregano and thyme during the cooking process. These aromatic additions will deepen the flavor of your sauce, giving it a bright, herbaceous note. Don't forget to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking. Remember, quality ingredients make a significant difference, so opt for grass-fed beef and San Marzano tomatoes for the best results.
For a velvety finish, add a splash of cream or milk towards the end of cooking. This technique will not only brighten the sauce’s color but also enhance its richness. Additionally, allowing the sauce to rest for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors to set, resulting in a perfectly balanced dish.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Spaghetti Bolognese, don’t forget the essentials: al dente spaghetti and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A crisp side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast to the hearty sauce. For a touch of indulgence, offer warm garlic bread on the side to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce.
To enhance the dining experience, accompany your meal with a glass of red wine. Italian varieties such as Chianti or Sangiovese complement the flavors in the Bolognese perfectly, making for a delightful Italian-inspired evening. Don’t forget to engage with your guests; share stories about the dish while enjoying the meal, as food is best savored when shared among friends and family.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze this sauce?
Yes, this sauce freezes well. Just let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
→ What other meat can I use?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats for a different flavor.
Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce
Savor the rich and hearty flavors of homemade Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce, a classic Italian dish that combines ground meat, savory tomatoes, and aromatic herbs for a comforting meal loved by all. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this versatile sauce pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta and is sure to impress. Elevate your culinary skills and enjoy a taste of Italy right at home.
Created by: Maisie Clarke
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 500g ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 400g canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 100ml red wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the sauce has thickened, serve it over cooked spaghetti and garnish with fresh basil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 22g