Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of a classic spaghetti bolognese. This beloved Italian dish features tender spaghetti coated in a hearty meat sauce made from ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the details to create this culinary masterpiece at home!
Ingredients
- 400g spaghetti
- 300g ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 400g canned tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 250g) contains about 450 calories, 25g protein, 15g fat, 50g carbohydrates, and 5g fiber. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; sauté until soft.
- Increase heat and add ground beef, cooking until browned.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the bolognese sauce.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or lentils for a vegetarian option. Additionally, use fresh herbs instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor, and consider adding red wine to enhance the sauce’s richness.
Serving and Pairings
Spaghetti bolognese pairs beautifully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A glass of red wine or sparkling water complements the dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the bolognese sauce for up to 3 months. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not browning the meat properly.
- Using low-quality canned tomatoes.
- Skipping the simmering step.
- Overcooking the spaghetti.
- Adding too much salt too early.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
- Let the sauce sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Pair with freshly baked bread for a complete meal.
- Try adding a pinch of sugar to balance acidity.
FAQs
Can I make spaghetti bolognese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
What type of pasta is best for bolognese?
While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, pappardelle, or even penne for a different texture.
Can I use vegetables in the sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Is spaghetti bolognese suitable for freezing?
Yes, the bolognese sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
How can I make it spicier?
To add some heat, you can incorporate red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers into the sauce while it cooks.
Conclusion
Spaghetti bolognese is a timeless dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t forget to share the love of good food!
Spaghetti Bolognese
Ingredients
- 400 g spaghetti
- 300 g ground beef
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 carrot diced
- 1 celery stalk diced
- 400 g canned tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; sauté until soft.
- Increase heat and add ground beef, cooking until browned.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the bolognese sauce.
- Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
