Spaghetti alla Bolognese

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins

Description:

Spaghetti Bolognese, also known as "spaghetti alla Bolognese," is a classic Italian pasta dish that features a rich and flavorful meat sauce served over spaghetti. Here's a basic recipe for making Spaghetti Bolognese:

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, finely chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or a combination of beef and pork)
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
  • Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Method:

  1. Cook the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce:
    • In a large saucepan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
  3. Brown the Meat:
    • Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
    • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine (if using).
    • Add the dried oregano, basil, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
    • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will become.
  5. Taste and Adjust:
    • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
  6. Serve:
    • To serve, spoon the Bolognese sauce over the cooked spaghetti.
    • Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley.
Spaghetti Bolognese is a versatile dish, and you can customize it to your taste. Some people like to add a touch of cream or milk to the sauce for a creamier texture, and you can also adjust the amount of wine used. Enjoy your homemade Spaghetti Bolognese with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

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