Perfect Spaghetti Bolognese

Perfect Spaghetti Bolognese

If you're craving a hearty, comforting dish that's easy to make and packed with flavour, look no further than this step-by-step recipe for Spaghetti Bolognese. Loved by families across the UK, this classic Italian-inspired dish has become a weeknight favourite, and with good reason.

Why Spaghetti Bolognese is a Family Favourite

Spaghetti Bolognese is one of those meals that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re feeding kids, hosting friends, or enjoying a quiet dinner, it’s the sort of dish that satisfies. The combination of rich meat sauce, tangy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked spaghetti is hard to beat. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to cook from scratch.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Spaghetti Bolognese

Before we dive into the cooking, here’s what you’ll need to prepare the perfect Spaghetti Bolognese:

• 400g spaghetti

• 500g minced beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 carrots, finely diced

• 2 celery sticks, finely diced

• 400g tin of chopped tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato purée

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Olive oil

• Optional: A splash of red wine and a sprinkle of parmesan

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies

The first step in making Spaghetti Bolognese is preparing your vegetables. Dice your onion, carrots, and celery finely. This “soffritto” is the flavour base of your sauce and adds a depth of flavour that’s essential. Mince your garlic and have everything ready before you begin cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

Heat a good glug of olive oil in a large frying pan or saucepan. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté gently on a medium heat for around 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the garlic and cook for a further minute. The rich aroma at this stage sets the foundation for a delicious Spaghetti Bolognese.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

Next, add the minced beef to the pan. Break it up with your spoon and cook until browned all over. This is a key moment in your Spaghetti Bolognese recipe. Make sure the meat is fully browned and any excess liquid is reduced – this step enhances the depth and richness of the sauce.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Once the meat is browned, stir in the tomato purée, followed by the chopped tomatoes. Add your dried herbs (oregano and basil), season with salt and pepper, and stir well. If you like, pour in a splash of red wine at this stage to give your Spaghetti Bolognese a grown-up twist. Simmer the sauce gently for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti

While your sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the packet instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Timing is key here—perfect spaghetti can elevate your Spaghetti Bolognese from good to great.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Now for the final step. Toss the cooked spaghetti through the sauce or serve the sauce ladled generously over the pasta—whichever you prefer. Top with grated parmesan and a crack of black pepper. Your homemade Spaghetti Bolognese is ready to be enjoyed!

Extra Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Bolognese

To make your Spaghetti Bolognese even more special, try simmering the sauce for longer. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavour. You can also bulk it up with mushrooms or courgettes for added nutrition, or swap out beef for lentils for a vegetarian twist.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

One of the best things about Spaghetti Bolognese is how well it keeps. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for future meals. Just reheat thoroughly on the hob or in the microwave until piping hot.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably satisfying about making Spaghetti Bolognese from scratch. With just a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a meal that’s comforting, nutritious, and full of flavour. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this step-by-step recipe makes it easy to master this much-loved classic.

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