Spaghetti Bolognese: A Timeless Family Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a big pot of Spaghetti Bolognese simmering on the stove to make my kitchen feel like home. This recipe has been a beloved staple in my family for generations, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house. We would gather around the table, laughing and sharing stories, as the rich aroma of tomatoes and garlic wafted through the air. It’s a dish that brings people together, warms the heart, and fills the belly.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Dish
- Family Favorite: This is a classic recipe that everyone loves, from picky kids to discerning adults. The comforting flavors of simmered tomatoes and hearty meat sauce are universally appealing, making it a go-to for family gatherings. The familiarity and nostalgia it brings are second to none, and it’s a dish that can be passed down through generations.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for beginners. Even if you’re not a seasoned cook, you’ll find that this recipe is both approachable and forgiving. The step-by-step process allows you to build confidence in the kitchen, turning you into the family chef everyone admires.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients that are often already in your pantry. It’s an economical choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor, proving that delicious meals don’t have to break the bank. Whether you’re feeding a large family or just a couple of people, this dish ensures that everyone leaves the table satisfied without costing a fortune.
- Versatile: You can tweak it to fit your taste, whether you like it extra garlicky or with a hint of spice. Feel free to experiment by adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat. Every cook can put their unique spin on this classic, making it perfect for those who love to experiment in the kitchen.
- Meal Prep Wonder: Make a big batch, and you’ll have leftovers that taste even better the next day. The flavors continue to meld and develop, offering a quick and satisfying meal in the days following. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeks when you need a wholesome meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch every day.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Calories: 450 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 500g ground beef
- 2 cans (400g each) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 400g spaghetti
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. This step is crucial for developing the base flavors. Be sure to stir occasionally to avoid any burning. The slower you cook these vegetables, the more flavors they release, enhancing the overall taste of the sauce.
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Cook the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Browning the meat well is key to a rich depth of flavor, so take your time here. Make sure the beef is evenly browned, as this process caramelizes the meat and adds a beautiful complexity to the dish.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a sauce that’s both rich and complex. The longer you simmer, the more the flavors develop, so if you have the time, consider letting it go a bit longer.
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Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. Ensure the pasta is al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce. This ensures that your spaghetti is perfectly tender yet firm enough to hold up against the hearty sauce.
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Combine and Serve: Toss the spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce until well-coated. Serve with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. For an extra touch, add a few fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil before serving. To elevate the dish further, consider adding a few cracks of black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large Pot: Essential for cooking both the sauce and the pasta. A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal as it distributes heat evenly, preventing the sauce from burning.
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware. A wooden spoon is gentle yet sturdy enough to break up the ground beef as it cooks.
- Chef’s Knife: A good quality knife will make chopping vegetables much easier and more efficient. A sharp knife ensures even cuts, which cook more uniformly.
- Cutting Board: Choose a sturdy board to provide a safe surface for chopping. Opt for a board that is large enough to comfortably handle all your ingredients.
- Colander: Necessary for draining the pasta efficiently and safely. A colander with a sturdy base and handles will make transferring pasta from pot to plate a breeze.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Olive Oil: Adds a rich, fruity base flavor while helping to sauté the vegetables. It’s a healthy fat option that enhances the texture and flavor of the dish. Olive oil is also known for its heart health benefits.
- Onion & Garlic: Essential for building a depth of flavor that makes this dish so comforting. They form the aromatic foundation that elevates the sauce. Both are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Carrot & Celery: These aromatics add sweetness and complexity to the sauce. They balance the acidity of the tomatoes and add nutritional value. Carrots provide a natural sweetness, while celery offers a subtle earthiness.
- Ground Beef: Provides heartiness and protein, making this a filling meal. Opt for lean beef to reduce the fat content without sacrificing flavor. Ground beef is also a great source of iron and B vitamins.
- Tomatoes & Tomato Paste: The backbone of the sauce, offering tanginess and a lush texture. They are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant beneficial for health. Tomato paste adds a concentrated flavor and thickens the sauce.
- Herbs (Oregano & Basil): Infuse the sauce with aromatic Italian flavors. If fresh herbs are available, they can be used for an even more vibrant taste. Herbs are not only flavorful but also packed with antioxidants.
- Spaghetti: A classic choice that captures the sauce perfectly. Feel free to use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber or gluten-free varieties if needed. Pasta is a great source of energy and pairs beautifully with the rich sauce.
What to Serve With This Pasta Dish
Spaghetti Bolognese pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the Bolognese, while garlic bread is perfect for sopping up every bit of sauce.
For more inspiration, you can try pairing it with Homemade Garlic Bread or a refreshing Caprese Salad. If you’re looking to impress guests, consider serving a platter of antipasto with olives, cheeses, and cured meats. A glass of robust red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, also makes an excellent accompaniment to this classic dish.
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover Bolognese sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. This dish often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Freeze: This sauce freezes exceptionally well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore the sauce’s original consistency.
- Reheat: For best results, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. Avoid overheating, which can cause the sauce to separate or lose its rich texture.
In conclusion, this Spaghetti Bolognese is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home, just as it has in mine. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with laughter and love!
Air Fryer Chicken Hemp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
- Sprinkle the hemp seeds over the chicken and press them gently to adhere.
- Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes.
- Flip the chicken breasts and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.