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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
Spaghetti Bolognese
italianbeefpastacomfort foodweeknight dinner

Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. 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.

  2. Step 2

    Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery (the soffritto). Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.

  3. Step 3

    Add minced garlic and tomato paste. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  4. Step 4

    Pour in red wine and simmer until reduced by half, about 3 minutes.

  5. Step 5

    Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, and bay leaf. Stir well.

  6. 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.

  7. 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.

  8. Step 8

    If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach desired consistency.

  9. Step 9

    Divide cooked spaghetti among serving bowls. Ladle generous portions of Bolognese sauce over the pasta.

  10. 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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