Bolognese Sauce with Spaghetti

Few meals say comfort more than a pot of bolognese sauce simmering away on the stove filling the kitchen with its deep rich aroma This spaghetti bolognese has rescued so many of my busy weeknights and has even turned my picky eater into a pasta devotee The secret is in the slow simmer which draws out incredible flavor from simple humble ingredients

The first time I made this all I had on hand was some ground beef and a can of tomatoes and it still turned out so satisfying My kids always swoon over it and leftovers never last long in our home

Ingredients

• Ground beef: This brings a luscious texture and rich flavor Choose 80 20 for balance between taste and tenderness
• Onion diced: Adds sweetness and depth Choose a fresh yellow onion for the best caramelization
• Garlic minced: Boosts aromatic punch Fresh garlic makes a big difference so avoid powdered if possible
• Crushed tomatoes: Provide the sauce foundation Look for brands with ripe sweet flavor and few additives
• Red wine optional: Deepens and elevates the sauce Choose a dry red you would enjoy drinking
• Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing every other ingredient Taste and adjust
• Spaghetti: Slim classic pasta shape to soak up every bit of sauce Use bronze cut pasta for extra cling and chew

Instructions

Brown the Beef and Aromatics:

In a heavy bottomed pot add the ground beef onions and garlic Set over medium heat Let the beef cook slowly without rushing breaking it up gently as it browns Stir from time to time until the meat loses its pinkness and the onions turn soft and golden Let this take at least 10 minutes so the base develops flavor

Simmer with Tomatoes and Wine:

Once the aromatics and beef meld together pour in the crushed tomatoes If using red wine add it now Stir well and bring to a steady simmer Lower the heat to keep it just gently bubbling Skim off any foam Let it cook uncovered for at least 30 minutes up to 40 for maximum flavor Stir every so often until the sauce thickens to your liking

Boil the Spaghetti:

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil Add a good dose of salt so the pasta is well seasoned Drop in the spaghetti Stir occasionally until al dente This usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes Taste for doneness

Combine and Serve:

Drain the pasta saving a bit of the cooking water Add the hot spaghetti to your sauce Toss together If the sauce seems too thick add a splash of pasta water Serve immediately with extra cracked pepper and grated cheese if you like

Save

I never tire of savoring how the red wine transforms this sauce into something really special Sometimes my family will gather in the kitchen just to sneak spoonfuls from the pot as it simmers and the laughter always makes this recipe memorable

Storage Tips

This bolognese holds beautifully in the fridge for up to four days Use an airtight container for best freshness To freeze portion out the cooled sauce in freezer safe bags or containers It reheats best over gentle heat on the stove or microwave with a splash of water

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of beef turkey or pork work just as well For vegetarians opt for plant based crumbles or lentils For the tomatoes diced or whole peeled will do When skipping wine try a splash of balsamic vinegar or broth

Serving Suggestions

Ladle thick bolognese over any pasta shape you like from penne to rigatoni I love finishing with Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil Leftovers are fantastic tucked into baked potatoes or as the base for a cheesy shepherds pie

Cultural and Historical Notes

Bolognese hails from Bologna Italy where it is known as ragù alla bolognese Traditionally it is served with tagliatelle not spaghetti but most home cooks love it with spaghetti for ease and comfort The true secret is letting time do the work for the richest sauce

Helpful Recipe Notes

Simmer sauce slowly uncovered for best flavor development Use good quality canned tomatoes to avoid bitterness Toss pasta directly into sauce for better coating and less dryness

Success Stories

Friends have called this the best bolognese they have ever had and brought it to their own family tables Over the holidays I doubled the recipe for a crowd and everyone raved It always brings people together

Freezer Meal Conversion

Cook a double batch let the sauce cool and freeze in individual portions Thaw overnight in the fridge or gently on the stove You can even freeze cooked pasta separately for quick dinners

Save

Let this bolognese be your go to comfort dish for any busy night or family gathering The slow cooked flavors are worth every second and leftovers taste even better

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of ground meat is best for Bolognese sauce?

Ground beef is most traditional for Bolognese, but a mix of beef and pork can add flavor and tenderness.

→ How long should the sauce simmer?

Let the sauce gently simmer for 30 to 40 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.

→ Can red wine be omitted?

Yes. While red wine adds depth, the sauce will still be delicious if you leave it out.

→ Should spaghetti be mixed with the sauce or served separately?

You can serve the sauce poured over the spaghetti or toss them together before serving, based on preference.

→ What garnishes pair well with this dish?

A sprinkle of grated Parmesan and fresh basil or parsley complete the dish beautifully.