Classic Italian Spaghetti Bolognese, Homemade Recipe

Classic Italian Spaghetti Bolognese is one of the most beloved pasta dishes around the globe. Combining rich, slow-simmered beef sauce with perfectly cooked al dente spaghetti, this classic meal brings the comforting flavors of traditional Italian cuisine straight to your dining table. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or cooking a cozy family meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 45 mins | Servings: 4-6

Ingredients for Classic Italian Spaghetti Bolognese

For the Meat Sauce (Bolognese):

• Ground Beef: 500g (lean or 80/20 for richer flavor)
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 medium, finely diced
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Carrots: 1 medium, finely diced
• Celery: 1 stalk, finely diced
• Canned Crushed Tomatoes: 400g (1 can)
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
• Beef Broth: 250ml (1 cup)
• Dried Oregano & Basil: 1 teaspoon each
• Bay Leaf: 1 leaf
• Salt & Black Pepper: To taste

For the Pasta & Serving:

• Spaghetti: 400g
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated, for serving
• Fresh Basil Leaves: For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions “Classic Italian Spaghetti Bolognese”

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook for 6–8 minutes until browned completely. Drain off any excess grease if desired.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to enhance its flavor. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Add the oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially with a lid and let it simmer for at least 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer and more flavorful the sauce becomes.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually around 8–10 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Remove the bay leaf from the sauce. Add the drained spaghetti directly into the sauce (add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to coat the pasta evenly) and toss well. Serve warm, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Pro Chef Tips for the Best Bolognese

• Finely Chop the Vegetables: Small, uniform pieces melt into the sauce, giving it a smooth and rich texture.
• Low & Slow: Don’t rush the simmering process! Simmering allows all the herbs, tomatoes, and meat flavors to blend seamlessly.

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