Classic Homemade Spaghetti Bolognese: A Family Favorite

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Classic Homemade Spaghetti Bolognese: A Family Favorite

Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless dish, cherished for its rich flavors and comforting simplicity. Forget the jarred sauces; making it from scratch elevates this classic to a whole new level. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests with your culinary skills. Let’s dive into creating this delicious, hearty meal.

What Makes This Bolognese Special?

This isn't just any Bolognese recipe. It's about building layers of flavor. The combination of ground meat, vegetables, and a slow simmer in a rich tomato sauce creates a depth that store-bought sauces simply can't match.

Ingredients You'll Need:

  • 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, but highly recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Brown the Meat: Add ground beef (or beef and pork mixture) to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, draining any excess fat.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and red wine (if using). Add oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.
  5. Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce is simmering, cook spaghetti according to package directions.
  6. Serve: Drain the spaghetti and toss it with the Bolognese sauce. Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Perfect Bolognese

  • Use Quality Ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, the better the final result. Opt for high-quality ground meat and canned tomatoes.
  • Don't Rush the Simmer: The long simmering time is crucial for developing the rich flavors of the sauce. Be patient!
  • Add a Touch of Cream: For an even richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese during the last 15 minutes of simmering.
  • Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember, a little salt can go a long way.

Variations to Try

  • Vegetarian Bolognese: Substitute the ground meat with lentils or crumbled plant-based meat alternatives.
  • Spicy Bolognese: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Smoked Paprika: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sauce for a smoky flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping into the sauce.
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the Bolognese.
  • Red Wine: Pair with a glass of your favorite red wine for a complete Italian meal.

Call to Action

Ready to try this amazing recipe? Gather your ingredients and start cooking! Share your creations with friends and family – they’ll thank you for it.

Enjoy the process and savor every bite of this classic homemade Spaghetti Bolognese. Buon Appetito!