When I think of comfort food that brings the whole family to the table, my mind instantly wanders to a steaming bowl of spaghetti Bolognese. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a bridge to cherished memories and moments shared with loved ones. I recall my grandmother standing over the stove, the rich aroma of simmering sauce wafting through the kitchen, as she regaled us with stories from her childhood. Today, I’m thrilled to share this beloved recipe with you, hoping it becomes a staple in your family’s repertoire just as it is in mine.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Dish
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Family Favorite: This recipe has been passed down through generations, and it never fails to gather everyone around the table. It’s the kind of meal that sparks conversation and laughter, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The communal aspect of enjoying spaghetti Bolognese is unmatched, as everyone reaches for seconds and shares their day over a hearty meal.
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Simple and Delicious: With straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Even novice cooks will find this recipe manageable and rewarding, as the flavors effortlessly meld to create a restaurant-quality dish at home.
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Nutritious Boost: The addition of fresh basil and vegetables adds a refreshing touch and nutritional value to the dish. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also contribute essential vitamins and minerals. Incorporating a variety of vegetables ensures that each bite is as nutritious as it is delicious, offering a balanced meal that satisfies both taste and health.
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Versatile: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, this spaghetti Bolognese fits the bill perfectly. Its versatility extends to being a crowd-pleaser at potlucks or a comforting meal for a quiet night in. You can easily scale the recipe up or down, adapting it to the number of guests and the occasion.
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Customizable: Tailor this recipe to your liking by adding more vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to suit your family’s tastes. Consider incorporating mushrooms or bell peppers for added depth and texture. You might also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to give the sauce a unique twist.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 500g ground beef
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 400g spaghetti
- Fresh basil leaves, to garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base for your sauce. The gentle cooking releases the natural sweetness of the vegetables, which balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning, which can impart a bitter taste to the sauce.
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Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef, and cook until browned. Break up any large chunks with a wooden spoon. Ensure the beef is well browned, as this enhances the flavor and adds a rich depth to the sauce. Browning the meat properly creates a delicious fond on the bottom of the pan, which will dissolve into the sauce, enriching it further.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef stock, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a robust and hearty sauce. If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a bit more beef stock or water to achieve your preferred consistency.
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Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Ensure the pasta is al dente for the perfect texture that holds the sauce well. Cooking the pasta to al dente ensures it retains a slight bite, complementing the hearty sauce without becoming mushy.
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Combine and Serve: Toss the spaghetti with the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic finish, while the Parmesan provides a savory, umami-rich layer. To enhance the presentation, you can chiffonade the basil, slicing it into thin ribbons that will wilt slightly from the heat of the pasta.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large Saucepan: Essential for preparing the sauce, allowing enough space for simmering and stirring. A non-stick or heavy-bottomed pan is ideal to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
- Wooden Spoon: Ideal for breaking up the beef and stirring the sauce without scratching your cookware. The spoon’s flat edge helps scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan.
- Medium Pot: Perfect for boiling the spaghetti to al dente perfection. Use a large enough pot to give the pasta plenty of room to move, preventing it from sticking together.
- Colander: To drain the spaghetti efficiently without losing any precious pasta. Make sure to shake off excess water to avoid diluting the sauce when you combine them.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe. Properly diced vegetables ensure even cooking and a uniform sauce texture.
- Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for all your chopping needs. Opt for a board with a groove to catch any juices, keeping your countertops clean.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Olive Oil: Adds a rich flavor and is a healthy fat source. Its monounsaturated fats are heart-healthy and enhance the dish’s overall taste. It also helps sauté the vegetables evenly, contributing to a rich base for the sauce.
- Onion and Garlic: Provide a flavorful base and are packed with antioxidants. They also have anti-inflammatory properties and help boost the immune system. Onions caramelize slightly when cooked, adding a natural sweetness to the sauce.
- Carrot and Celery: Add sweetness and nutrients like vitamin A and fiber. These vegetables bring a subtle complexity to the sauce while contributing to a balanced diet. The carrot’s natural sugars help balance the acidity of the tomatoes, while celery adds an earthy undertone.
- Ground Beef: A great source of protein and iron. Opt for lean ground beef to reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Crushed Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Offer a rich taste and are high in vitamin C. They form the heart of the sauce, providing a savory and slightly tangy foundation. The paste intensifies the tomato flavor, giving the sauce a thicker consistency.
- Beef Stock: Enhances the sauce’s depth and flavor. It adds a savory, umami quality that enriches the overall taste. Homemade stock can elevate the dish further, but store-bought works well in a pinch.
- Fresh Basil: Offers a fragrant aroma and is rich in antioxidants. It complements the richness of the sauce with its fresh, peppery notes. Basil also has anti-inflammatory properties, adding both flavor and health benefits.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory finish and is a good source of calcium. This cheese elevates the dish with its nutty, salty flavor, making each bite satisfying. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
What to Serve With This Pasta Dish
Pair this classic spaghetti Bolognese with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the sauce. Consider a salad of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and shaved Parmesan for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread, with its buttery and aromatic qualities, complements the pasta’s savory notes beautifully. You might also enjoy it with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, which complements the flavors beautifully and enhances the dining experience. For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime for a refreshing and palate-cleansing drink.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Store any leftover spaghetti Bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows you to enjoy the flavors as they continue to deepen over time. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce (without the pasta) for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Add freshly cooked spaghetti for a quick and satisfying meal. If the sauce seems a bit thick after thawing, consider adding a splash of water or beef stock to restore its consistency. For a quick lunch option, consider using leftover sauce in a homemade lasagna or as a topping for baked potatoes or zucchini boats.
I hope this classic spaghetti Bolognese brings as much joy and warmth to your home as it does to mine. It’s a dish that not only fills the stomach but also feeds the soul. Enjoy creating new memories around your table with this timeless recipe. Happy cooking!
For more delicious recipes, check out our posts on Homemade Garlic Bread and Fresh Garden Salad. You might also find some great pasta tips on Epicurious to elevate your cooking skills.
Air Fryer Ramps
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, toss the cleaned ramps with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Place the ramps in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Once tender and slightly crispy, remove from the air fryer and drizzle with lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately.