mixed noodles with meat sauce

How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese: A Comprehensive Guide

Spaghetti Bolognese, a beloved classic, combines tender pasta with a rich, meaty sauce. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting the perfect version.

Ingredients: 400g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork), 1 onion (diced), 2 carrots (finely chopped), 2 celery stalks (minced), 3 garlic cloves (crushed), 400g canned tomatoes, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 cup red wine (optional), 1 bay leaf, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and 400g spaghetti.

Steps:

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft (5 mins). Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Brown the Meat: Increase heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned (8-10 mins). Drain excess fat.

3. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in tomato paste, cook for 1 minute. Pour in tomatoes (crush them with your hands) and red wine (if using). Add bay leaf, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 45-60 mins, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

4. Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.

5. Combine: Toss spaghetti with the sauce, adding pasta water to loosen if needed. Serve with grated Parmesan and fresh basil.

Tips: For deeper flavor, let the sauce simmer longer. Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Enjoy this hearty, comforting dish with family!