Classic Spaghetti Bolognese

A hearty and comforting Italian-inspired pasta dish with a rich, slow-simmered meat and tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 14 oz spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots finely diced
- 2 celery stalks finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 lb ground beef or beef/pork mix
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth or red wine, optional
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar optional, to balance acidity
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 1/2 cup Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
- Increase heat to medium-high, add ground beef, and cook until browned. Break it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in tomato paste, then add canned tomatoes, stock (or wine), oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and sugar. Mix well.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove bay leaf.
- Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain.
- Toss spaghetti with the sauce or spoon the sauce on top. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan.
Notes
Make ahead: Sauce keeps in fridge 3 days or freezer 3 months.
Variation: Add a splash of milk at the end for creaminess.
Vegetarian option: Use mushrooms or plant-based mince.
Variation: Add a splash of milk at the end for creaminess.
Vegetarian option: Use mushrooms or plant-based mince.
