Authentic Italian Spaghetti Bolognese: A Hearty Classic

Ingredients

  • 400 grams spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 500 grams lean minced beef
  • 100 grams pancetta, finely chopped
  • 1 large carrot, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 1 can (400 grams) chopped tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 50 grams Parmesan cheese, grated

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and garlic to the pan and sauté until the onions are translucent.
  3. Add the minced beef and pancetta to the pan and cook until browned.
  4. Add the chopped carrot and celery to the pan and continue to cook for another 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes.
  7. While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
  8. Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.
  9. Pour the sauce over the cooked spaghetti and mix well.
  10. Serve the spaghetti Bolognese with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Tools for making

  • Large pan - for sautéing the onions, garlic, and beef
  • Pot - for cooking the spaghetti
  • Wooden spoon - for stirring and mixing the ingredients
  • Chef's knife - for chopping the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery
  • Grater - for grating the Parmesan cheese
  • Can opener - for opening the can of chopped tomatoes
  • Measuring spoons - for accurate measurement of the olive oil, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper
  • Spatula - for serving the spaghetti Bolognese

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian option: Replace the minced beef with plant-based ground meat substitute.
  • Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the sauce for some heat.
  • Mushroom lovers: Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor.
  • Extra veggies: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to the sauce for added texture and nutrition.
  • Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to add different flavors to the sauce.
  • Whole wheat spaghetti: Substitute regular spaghetti with whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option.
  • Garnish options: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top before serving.
  • Cheese alternatives: Use a vegan cheese substitute or try different types of cheese like pecorino or mozzarella.
  • Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free spaghetti or other gluten-free pasta alternatives.
  • Meat options: Try using ground pork, veal, or a combination of meats instead of beef.

Recipe overview

Indulge in the savory comfort of classic Italian cuisine with this simple yet delicious Spaghetti Bolognese recipe. A perfect blend of hearty meat sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish promises to satisfy your cravings for a rich and filling meal. Featuring ingredients like lean minced beef, pancetta, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this recipe yields a sauce that's both aromatic and robust. A generous splash of red wine deepens the flavors, while a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a finishing touch of indulgence. This recipe is fairly straightforward, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Expect to spend some time sautéing and simmering to allow the flavors to fully develop. But rest assured, your patience will be rewarded with a dish that's truly bellissimo! Enjoy a taste of Italy right at your dinner table with this delightful Spaghetti Bolognese.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. However, spaghetti is traditionally used for this recipe.
  2. Can I substitute the minced beef? Yes, you can substitute minced beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative like lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
  3. Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can make the Bolognese sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce before serving and cook the spaghetti fresh.
  4. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze any leftover Bolognese sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  5. Can I omit the wine? If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with beef or vegetable broth to add flavor to the sauce.
  6. Can I adjust the seasoning? Yes, feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
  7. Can I add vegetables to the sauce? Absolutely! You can add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
  8. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Peel and chop them, or use tomato puree as a substitute for canned tomatoes.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pan - A large pan is necessary for cooking the sauce and browning the meat.
  • Wooden spoon - A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the sauce and preventing any scratches on the pan.
  • Pot - A pot is needed for cooking the spaghetti.
  • Colander - A colander is essential for draining the cooked spaghetti.
  • Grater - A grater is required for grating the Parmesan cheese.
  • Serving dish - A serving dish is useful for presenting the spaghetti Bolognese.

Origin stories

Spaghetti Bolognese, as we know it today, is a dish that has its roots in the culinary tradition of Bologna, a vibrant city in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy. The original recipe, known as "Ragù alla Bolognese", is a slow-cooked sauce featuring beef, pork, a soffritto of finely chopped vegetables, and a splash of local wine, typically served with a type of pasta known as "tagliatelle". However, it was during the mid-20th century that this robust and flavorful sauce met its match with spaghetti, creating the "Spaghetti Bolognese" beloved by many around the globe. Despite its lack of authenticity in the eyes of Italian purists, this hearty combination has become a symbol of Italian cuisine worldwide. An interesting fact is that in 1982, the Bolognese delegation to the Italian Academy of Cuisine officially registered the recipe of "Ragù alla Bolognese" to safeguard one of the most famous Italian recipes in the world.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.