Name: Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, chopped; 16 oz ground beef (or ground pork or turkey); 1/2 cup red wine (or stock or water); 2 beef bouillon cubes, crushed; 28 oz can crushed tomatoes; 1 tbsp granulated sugar; 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 bay leaves; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of your choice); 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

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Introduction

Classic Spaghetti Bolognese is a comforting Italian favorite that’s perfect for a family dinner. Rich, savory, and satisfying, this hearty meat sauce combined with perfectly cooked pasta is sure to please any crowd.

A white bowl filled with thick spaghetti noodles covered in a rich, chunky red meat sauce. On top, a generous layer of finely grated white cheese is sprinkled evenly, adding texture to the sauce. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with a metal pot full of more of the same meat sauce partially visible in the background, and a piece of yellow cheese with a grater resting beside it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
16 oz ground beef (or ground pork or turkey)
1/2 cup red wine (or stock of your choice, or water)
2 beef bouillon cubes, crushed
28 oz can of crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp granulated sugar
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of your choice)
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, then add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion with a pinch of salt and sauté for about 5 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Add the ground meat to the pan. You can either form it into small meatballs or simply break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
Step 3: Pour in the red wine or broth/water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pan and cook until the alcohol aroma dissipates, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the crushed bouillon cubes, crushed tomatoes, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Combine well and bring to a gentle bubble. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes. Add a little water if the sauce thickens too much.
Step 5: Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 6: Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the Bolognese sauce. Stir well to combine using a wooden spoon or tongs.
Step 7: Divide the spaghetti Bolognese into four plates or meal prep containers. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve immediately with a fresh salad and crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

For a richer sauce, use ground pork or a mix of beef and pork instead of just beef.
If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with lentils or chopped mushrooms.
Adding a splash of milk or cream near the end of cooking can make the sauce smoother and creamier.
Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano in place of dried thyme for a more fragrant flavor.
Freezing leftovers in portions makes for quick and convenient future meals.

Storage

Store leftover Spaghetti Bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with thick spaghetti coated in a rich red tomato meat sauce, placed at the center of the image. The spaghetti noodles are twisted and layered, showing a dense texture with a glossy shine from the sauce. On top of the pasta, there is a generous layer of finely grated white cheese evenly spread over the sauce. In the background, part of a pot with more red meat sauce is visible, along with a white marble surface underneath the bowl, a block of cheese, and a metal grater. The overall scene has a cozy and homemade feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta with this Bolognese sauce?

Yes, this sauce pairs well with any pasta shape, such as penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni. Choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand.

Is it necessary to add red wine?

No, red wine adds depth of flavor but can be substituted with beef stock, vegetable broth, or water if preferred or if you want to keep it alcohol-free.