Spaghetti Bolognese

A classic Spaghetti Bolognese with rich meat sauce, tomatoes, herbs, and perfectly cooked pasta. Easy, hearty, and ideal for a comforting family meal.

Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless pasta dish made with a savory meat sauce simmered with tomatoes, onion, garlic, herbs, and a touch of wine for depth. Served over al dente spaghetti and finished with cheese, it is hearty, comforting, and perfect for both weeknights and special family dinners.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/2 cup dry red wine
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 tsp sugar, optional
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
4. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
6. Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
7. Pour in the red wine and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
8. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Stir well.
9. Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors come together.
10. Remove the bay leaf. Toss the spaghetti with the sauce, adding a little reserved pasta water if needed to loosen it.
11. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.