Best Homemade Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
The Ultimate Homemade Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic dish loved by families around the world. There's something incredibly comforting about a rich, meaty sauce blanketing a pile of perfectly cooked spaghetti. This recipe brings the heart of Italy to your kitchen, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. — Worthington Brougham: Quality Furniture & Design
Why This Recipe Works
- Deep Flavor: We achieve a robust flavor by browning the meat properly and building layers of taste with vegetables, herbs, and wine.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry already.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this delicious meal.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork (optional, but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup dry red wine
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef and ground pork (if using) to the pot. Break the meat apart with a spoon and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Stir in the oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute more.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the red wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 hours for a richer flavor. Stir occasionally.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked spaghetti to the pot with the Bolognese sauce. Toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for the Perfect Bolognese
- Don't Rush the Browning: Properly browning the meat is crucial for developing deep, rich flavors. Be patient and let it get nice and brown before moving on to the next step.
- Simmer Low and Slow: Simmering the sauce for a longer period allows the flavors to meld together and deepen. If you have the time, let it simmer for 2-3 hours.
- Use Good Quality Tomatoes: The quality of your tomatoes will greatly impact the final flavor of the sauce. Opt for high-quality crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don't be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste.
Variations
- Vegetarian Bolognese: Substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Bolognese: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Bolognese: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a creamier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade Spaghetti Bolognese with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. A glass of Chianti or other Italian red wine pairs perfectly with this dish. — Brian Jason Wagner: Biography, Career, And Achievements
Call to Action
Ready to try this amazing recipe? Gather your ingredients and start cooking! Share your delicious creations with friends and family. Buon appetito! — Autism Cure: What Reddit Users Are Saying