Name: Classic Spaghetti Bolognese (Family Favorite)
Prep time: PT-491975H45S
Cook time: PT-491975H45S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion peeled and finely diced; 2 cloves garlic peeled and minced; 1 carrot peeled and finely diced; 3 chestnut mushrooms finely diced; 450 g (1 lb) minced beef (ground beef); 120 ml (1/2 cup) red wine; 3 tbsp tomato puree; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried thyme; 1 tbsp worcestershire sauce; 1 beef stock cube crumbled; 2 x 400 g (2 x 14 oz) tins finely chopped tomatoes; ½ tbsp light brown sugar; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 300 g (10.5 oz) dried spaghetti or fresh pasta; small bunch spring onions (scallions) chopped; grated parmesan

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Classic Spaghetti Bolognese is a dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. This Italian classic features a rich, meaty sauce that clings beautifully to strands of pasta, creating a dish that is both satisfying and wholesome. The combination of flavors, from the sweetness of the onion and carrot to the hearty beef and vibrant tomatoes, forms a symphony of taste that warms the soul. As the sauce simmers, it fills your home with an inviting aroma, drawing everyone in and creating anticipation.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Classic Spaghetti Bolognese (Family Favorite)
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Classic Spaghetti Bolognese (Family Favorite)

Classic Spaghetti Bolognese (Family Favorite)

This recipe has been a family favorite in my household for years. It’s one of those comforting meals that I grew up with, often making its way onto our dinner rotation during busy weeknights or cozy weekends alike. Not only is Classic Spaghetti Bolognese (Family Favorite) incredibly easy to prepare, but it also serves as a perfect vessel for whatever you have in your pantry—making it wonderfully flexible and budget-friendly. I invite you to gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delightful process of cooking this dish together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With just a handful of ingredients and about 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal any night of the week.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of savory beef, sweet vegetables, and rich tomatoes creates a taste that’s both comforting and indulgent.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors and textures make this dish a feast for the eyes, perfect for impressing guests.
Flexible Serving: Great for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.
Diet-Friendly Options: Feel free to swap out beef for turkey or make it vegetarian by using lentils instead!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tbsp olive oil: This helps sauté the vegetables and adds a hint of flavor.
1 onion, peeled and finely diced: A classic base for flavor; choose a yellow onion for sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced: Fresh garlic enhances the aroma and taste of the sauce.
1 carrot, peeled and finely diced: Sweetness from the carrot balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
3 chestnut mushrooms, finely diced: Adds depth and umami to the sauce. You can substitute with button mushrooms if needed.
450 g (1 lb) minced beef (ground beef): A rich source of flavor; if you can only find a 400g pack, that’s perfectly fine too.
120 ml (1/2 cup) red wine: Adds complexity; use a dry wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon for the best results.
3 tbsp tomato puree: Concentrated tomato flavor helps thicken the sauce.
1 tsp dried oregano: This herb is typical in Italian cooking and adds a comforting aroma.
½ tsp dried thyme: Complements the other flavors while enhancing the savory profile.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: A touch of this sauce deepens the flavor.
1 beef stock cube, crumbled: Provides a robust base for the sauce; you can use vegetable stock for lighter options.
2 x 400 g (2 x 14 oz) tins finely chopped tomatoes: The main component of your sauce; use quality brands for a rich flavor.
½ tbsp light brown sugar: Helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and adds a touch of sweetness.
½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors.
½ tsp black pepper: A little heat to round out the dish.
300 g (10.5 oz) dried spaghetti: A classic choice; you can also use fresh pasta if you prefer.
Small bunch spring onions (scallions), chopped: For a fresh, crunchy garnish.
Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle adds a deliciously rich finish to your dish.

How to Make Classic Spaghetti Bolognese (Family Favorite)

Heat the oil: In a frying pan over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Allow it to warm for a moment before adding the onion.

Sauté the onion: Add the 1 finely diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion softens and turns translucent.

Add garlic: Toss in 2 minced garlic cloves, letting it cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Incorporate vegetables: Add 1 finely diced carrot and 3 finely diced chestnut mushrooms. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the veggies soften slightly but maintain some crunch.

Brown the beef: Toss in 450 g minced beef. Cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking up large chunks with your spatula until the meat is browned and no longer pink.

Pour in red wine: Add 120 ml red wine and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it bubble for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to reduce by three-quarters.

Stir in the sauce: Next, mix in 3 tbsp tomato puree, 1 tsp dried oregano, ½ tsp dried thyme, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 crumbled beef stock cube, 2 tins finely chopped tomatoes, ½ tbsp light brown sugar, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Stir well, then bring to a boil once more.

Simmer the sauce: Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Cook the spaghetti: Meanwhile, boil a large pot of salted water. Add 300 g dried spaghetti and cook for 10-12 minutes, following the package instructions until al dente.

Plate the dish: Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and distribute it evenly into four bowls.

Serve with sauce and garnish: Spoon the bolognese sauce generously over the spaghetti. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped spring onions and a handful of grated Parmesan cheese before serving warm.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, let the spaghetti Bolognese cool and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the Bolognese sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture. Note that the texture might change slightly after freezing, but a little stirring and simmering will bring it back!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the vegetables in the first steps; they should retain some texture for the best bite.
Use room-temperature ingredients when possible; they incorporate more easily into the sauce.
Timing is key; don’t rush the simmering phase, as this allows the flavors to develop fully.
For added depth, try fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving.
If you like a touch of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
This sauce can be made ahead of time; it can often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.

With its rich aroma and inviting flavors, Classic Spaghetti Bolognese (Family Favorite) is sure to become a cherished recipe in your household. The ease of preparation, combined with the satisfaction of a hearty meal, makes it a perfect choice for both busy families and romantic dinners alike. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and make this dish your own, perhaps by adding an extra sprinkle of herbs or serving it with garlic bread. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic alternative for a lighter option. It still packs flavor but with less fat. Just be sure to season it well to enhance its taste.

What can I serve with spaghetti Bolognese?

A fresh side salad, some garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make excellent companions to this dish. They help balance the hearty flavors and add freshness to your meal.

Can I make this sauce in advance?

Yes! This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a few days or frozen for up to 3 months. In fact, many find that the flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge.

How do I know if my pasta is cooked properly?

To achieve that perfect al dente texture, check the pasta packaging for cooking times. Generally, pasta is done when it is tender yet still has a slight firmness. Taste a strand about a minute before the time is up to see if it’s to your liking!