Introduction
Experience the heartwarming comfort of authentic Spaghetti Bolognese – a rich, slow-simmered meat sauce tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti. This classic Italian-American dish features layers of flavor from ground meat, tomatoes, herbs, and a secret ingredient that makes it extraordinary. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe will become your go-to comfort food favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍝 Rich & Hearty – Deep, complex flavors that develop over time
- 👨👩👧👦 Feeds a Crowd – Perfect for family meals and leftovers
- ⏲️ Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day
- 🇮🇹 Authentic Touch – Traditional techniques for the best flavor
Ingredients You Will Need
(Serves 6)
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
- ½ cup red wine (optional)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup whole milk or cream (secret ingredient)
For Serving:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 8-10 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Increase heat to medium-high. Add ground meat, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned (8-10 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until reduced by half.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, bay leaf, oregano, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add the Secret Ingredient
Stir in milk or cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This adds richness and balances the acidity.
Step 6: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Toss drained spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce, adding pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese.
Pro Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Bolognese
- 🥕 Fine Chopping – Small vegetable pieces create a smoother sauce
- 🍷 Quality Wine – Use wine you’d drink for best flavor
- ⏲️ Slow Simmer – Longer cooking develops deeper flavors
- 🧀 Fresh Parmesan – Grating your own makes a difference
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store sauce for up to 4 days
- Freeze: Sauce freezes beautifully for up to 3 months
- Reheat: Gently warm sauce and toss with freshly cooked pasta
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread and a green salad
- Pair with a robust red wine like Chianti
- Perfect for Sunday family dinners
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
Conclusion
This Spaghetti Bolognese is the ultimate comfort food that brings people together around the table. With its rich, meaty sauce and perfect pasta, it’s a dish that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll understand why it remains a timeless classic loved by generations!