If there’s one dish that screams comfort food to me, it’s got to be Easy Spaghetti Bolognese. I can still remember the first time my mom made this dish for our family. As the smell of savory meat and fragrant herbs filled the house, it felt like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Ever since then, this dish has held a special place in my heart. Whether I’m hosting friends or just cozied up with a good book, a big bowl of Bolognese never fails to make me feel at home.
What I love about this recipe is that it’s a simple yet satisfying classic. You can whip it up on a busy weekday but still impress anyone sitting at your table. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without anyone complaining! So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the delightful world of homemade Spaghetti Bolognese!
What’s in Easy Spaghetti Bolognese?
- Spaghetti: The ultimate comfort noodle! I usually stick with Barilla for its perfect texture when cooked.
- Minced beef (or minced pork): Personally, I love using minced beef for that deep, rich flavor, but minced pork works wonderfully, too!
- Onion: A large, finely chopped onion lends a sweet depth to the sauce as it cooks down.
- Garlic: Always a must! Two cloves minced to add a delicious aroma and flavor.
- Carrot: Diced, it adds sweetness and a bit of color to the dish.
- Celery: Just one stalk, diced finely, helps to build that classic mirepoix base.
- Canned diced tomatoes: I like using San Marzano tomatoes for their rich flavor.
- Tomato paste: This thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor. Don’t skip it!
- Dried oregano and basil: These herbs bring a Mediterranean flair—use dried for convenience!
- Salt and pepper: Essential to brighten up all the flavors.
- Olive oil: For sautéing everything to golden perfection.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Because no Bolognese is complete without a sprinkle of cheese on top—optional but highly recommended!
Is Easy Spaghetti Bolognese Good for You?
Oh, where do I start? This Easy Spaghetti Bolognese packs a protein punch thanks to the minced beef, which helps keep you full and satisfied. The tomatoes are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making your heart happy! And let’s not forget the sneaky veggies like carrots and celery, which add nutrients and fiber.
However, if you’re watching your calorie intake, be mindful of how much olive oil and Parmesan cheese you add. You can always cut back on the oil or use leaner meat for a lighter version. Paired with a side salad or some steamed veggies, you’ve got yourself a balanced meal!
Ingredients List
- 400g spaghetti
- 500g minced beef (or minced pork)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 400g canned diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
How to Make Easy Spaghetti Bolognese?
- First, grab a large pot and bring salted water to a boil. Toss in the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—just the way we like it!
- While that’s cooking, heat up your olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté these beauties for about 5 minutes until they’re looking soft and lovely.
- Next, add the minced garlic and give it a quick stir, cooking for just 1 minute until it’s fragrant—trust me, you’ll want to breathe in that delicious aroma!
- Now crank up the heat to medium-high. Add the minced beef to the pan and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it up with a spatula. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and generously season with salt and pepper. Bring this mouth-watering mixture to a simmer.
- Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is when all those flavors have a chance to mingle!
- Once your spaghetti is ready and your sauce is bubbling, serve up the spaghetti topped with your rich Bolognese sauce. Feel free to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for that extra touch of yum!
Extra Tips for a Perfect Bolognese
- For a little extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers. Trust me, it elevates the dish!
- If you love your veggies, consider throwing in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
- This dish shines when paired with garlic bread or a fresh side salad. You can never go wrong with a good bread to soak up that delicious sauce!
Before you know it, this Easy Spaghetti Bolognese will become a favorite in your household, too! The flavors are comforting, and the recipe is flexible, allowing you to make it your own. I can’t wait for you to try it and hopefully create some wonderful memories in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your experience with me! Happy cooking!
