Spaghetti Bolognese
A classic Italian meat sauce simmered with tomatoes and aromatics, served over tender spaghetti. Rich, savory, and deeply satisfying comfort food.
- Total time
- 45 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 620
- Protein
- 38g

Ingredients
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Open the appInstructions
Step 1
Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2
Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery (the soffritto). Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 3
Add minced garlic and tomato paste. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4
Pour in red wine and simmer until reduced by half, about 3 minutes.
Step 5
Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, and bay leaf. Stir well.
Step 6
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and darken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 8
If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach desired consistency.
Step 9
Divide cooked spaghetti among serving bowls. Ladle generous portions of Bolognese sauce over the pasta.
Step 10
Top with grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Serve immediately.
Tools you’ll need
- large heavy-bottomed pot
- wooden spoon
- large pot for pasta
- colander
- measuring spoons
- measuring cups
- cutting board
- chef's knife
- grater
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