Classic Spaghetti Bolognese

A rich and savory spaghetti dish featuring a hearty, meaty tomato sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and topped with grated Parmesan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This timeless Italian‑inspired recipe delivers depth of flavor and comfort. Slow‑simmered sauce infused with meat, tomatoes, and aromatics clings beautifully to pasta for an unforgettable meal that warms from the inside out.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef or a mix of beef and pork

• Onion, carrot, celery (soffritto)

• Garlic

• Crushed or diced tomatoes, tomato paste

• Red or white wine (optional)

• Beef or chicken broth

• Olive oil

• Dried oregano or Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper

• Spaghetti noodles

• Grated Parmesan

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a heavy pot. Sauté onion, carrot, celery, garlic until softened.

2. Add ground meat; brown thoroughly.

3. Stir in tomato paste, then deglaze with wine if using.

4. Add tomatoes, broth, seasoning; bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Cover partially and simmer at least 30 minutes (longer if possible).

6. Cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and toss with sauce.

7. Serve topped with grated Parmesan.

Servings and timing

Serves about 6. Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: minimum 45 minutes (longer improves flavor). Total time: about 1 hour.

Variations

• Add chopped mushrooms or grated zucchini to stretch the sauce.

• Use ground turkey or plant‑based meat substitute.

• Stir in cream or milk near end for ragù-style richness.

• Add pancetta or bacon at start for depth.

Storage/reheating

Store sauce and pasta separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat sauce gently on the stove. Combine with freshly cooked spaghetti for best texture. Sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes—prepare sauce ahead and refrigerate or freeze; reheat before serving.

Why should the sauce simmer longer?

Long simmering develops deeper flavor and mellows acidity.

Can I skip wine?

Yes—use additional broth instead; wine adds depth but is optional.

Is this recipe keto‑friendly?

Use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles instead of spaghetti.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes—swap meat for lentils or plant‑based mince.

How do I prevent spaghetti from clumping?

Serve immediately after tossing, and use enough sauce to coat strands.

Can I use fresh tomatoes?

Yes—use ripe tomatoes, chopped or pureed, but may need longer simmering.

Do I need tomato paste?

Tomato paste adds rich umami—omit if unavailable but flavor won’t be as deep.

What’s the best grated cheese?

Parmigiano‑Reggiano or Grana Padano offer authentic flavor.

What side dishes complement this?

Try garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

Classic Spaghetti Bolognese delivers hearty, comforting flavor that’s easy to make and even more satisfying. Perfect for family meals, dinner parties, or any time you crave homemade goodness.

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