Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

Introduction

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish loved by people all over the world. This hearty and flavorful recipe combines the richness of a meaty tomato sauce with perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound spaghetti
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Steps

1. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
3. Add the carrots and celery to the pot and cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir again.
6. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
7. In the meantime, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
8. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the pot with the sauce. Mix well to coat the pasta with the sauce.
9. Serve the spaghetti bolognese hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Variations

While the classic spaghetti bolognese recipe is delicious as it is, you can also experiment with some variations to suit your taste:

• Use ground turkey or pork instead of beef for a different flavor.
• Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
• Incorporate vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
• For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced chili pepper.

Tips

• For a richer sauce, you can add a small amount of cream or milk towards the end of cooking.
• If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little water or additional beef broth.
• Leftover spaghetti bolognese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for future use.
• Serve the dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

Conclusion

Classic Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless recipe that never fails to satisfy. With its hearty meat sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or add your own twist, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Simply blanch them, remove the skins, and chop them before adding them to the sauce.

2. Can I use spaghetti substitutes like whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your preferred type of pasta or any substitutes that suit your dietary needs.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to develop even more.

4. Can I freeze the leftover sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.