There’s something undeniably comforting about a big pot of spaghetti Bolognese simmering away on the stove. The aroma fills the house, and it always takes me back to Sunday dinners with my family. We’d gather around the table, eager to twirl our forks into the rich, meaty sauce and tender pasta. This is more than just a meal; it’s a cherished tradition that brings warmth and joy into our home. Let me share with you my favorite version of this classic dish, with a touch of fresh basil to elevate the flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Dish
Spaghetti Bolognese is a dish that has captured the hearts of many, and for good reason. Here’s why it’s beloved in households around the world:
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Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s nothing quite like a hearty, homemade sauce to warm your heart and soul. The blend of rich meats and savory tomato sauce creates a dish that feels like a warm embrace. The process of slow-cooking the sauce fills your home with an inviting aroma, setting the stage for a comforting meal.
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Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this meal, making it perfect for family dinners. The flavors are universally appealing, and it’s a great way to introduce kids to the joys of cooking and eating together. Involving children in the kitchen can be a wonderful bonding experience and encourages them to explore new tastes.
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Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this dish. You don’t need to be an expert chef to create a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant. The process is forgiving and adaptable, allowing you to make it your own with little effort.
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Versatile: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you prefer to add more vegetables, use ground turkey for a lighter version, or make it vegetarian with lentils or mushrooms, the possibilities are endless. The sauce is a perfect canvas for experimentation, allowing you to tailor it to your personal preferences.
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Make-Ahead Magic: The flavors only get better with time, so it’s perfect for meal prepping or leftovers. The sauce can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy the luxury of a homemade meal even on your busiest days. It’s a practical choice for those who want to plan ahead without sacrificing flavor or quality.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- Fresh basil leaves, to garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, to serve
Instructions
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. This step is crucial for building the foundational flavors of your sauce. The gentle cooking of these aromatics releases their natural sweetness, which enhances the depth of the sauce.
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Brown the Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef and pork, and cook until browned. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Browning the meat not only adds flavor but also ensures the sauce has a hearty texture. Be sure not to overcrowd the pot, as this can cause the meat to steam rather than brown.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and savory sauce. If you have time, letting it simmer longer can further intensify the flavors.
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Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, so keep an eye on it and taste test as you go.
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Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. The fresh basil adds a burst of color and aroma, while the Parmesan provides a deliciously salty finish. Serve it in warmed bowls to keep the pasta hot and inviting.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To make this dish, having the right tools on hand can make the process smoother and more enjoyable:
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the sauce and ensuring even heat distribution. A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal as it prevents the sauce from scorching.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for breaking up the meat and stirring the sauce without scratching your pot. A wooden spoon is gentle yet effective, making it ideal for this purpose.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. A sharp knife is crucial for efficient and safe chopping.
- Pot for boiling pasta: You’ll need a separate pot to cook the spaghetti. A large pot with plenty of water allows the pasta to cook evenly and prevents sticking.
- Colander: For draining the pasta efficiently. A sturdy colander is essential for safely draining hot water without the risk of burns.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
Each ingredient in this dish plays a vital role in creating the rich and savory flavors that define a classic Bolognese sauce:
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Olive Oil: Provides a healthy fat base for sautéing the vegetables. It adds a subtle fruity flavor and helps to distribute the flavors evenly. Olive oil is also high in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
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Onion and Garlic: These aromatics add depth and flavor to the sauce. Onions offer sweetness, while garlic provides a pungent, savory note. Together, they create a flavorful base that is essential for any good sauce.
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Ground Beef and Pork: A mix of meats gives the sauce richness and complexity. The beef offers a robust flavor, while the pork adds a touch of sweetness and tenderness. This combination results in a well-rounded and satisfying sauce.
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Crushed Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: These provide the sauce’s body and tangy flavor. The tomatoes are the backbone of the sauce, offering acidity and sweetness, while the paste intensifies the tomato flavor. High-quality canned tomatoes can make a significant difference in the taste of your sauce.
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Beef Broth: Adds a savory depth that enhances the sauce. It helps to thin the sauce slightly while adding layers of flavor. Using a good-quality broth will contribute to the overall richness of the dish.
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Herbs and Spices: Oregano and basil bring a classic Italian flavor profile. Dried herbs are used for their concentrated flavors that develop over cooking time. Adjusting the amount of these herbs can alter the flavor profile to suit your personal preferences.
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Fresh Basil: Offers a fragrant, fresh finish to the dish. It adds a pop of color and a refreshing taste that complements the rich sauce. Fresh basil is best added at the end to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma.
What to Serve With This Pasta Dish
Pairing your spaghetti Bolognese with complementary sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas:
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Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Bolognese. The acidity in the vinaigrette cuts through the sauce’s richness, balancing the meal.
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Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread is also perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. The garlic bread can be made by spreading butter and minced garlic on slices of baguette and toasting them until golden. For an extra touch, sprinkle with parsley or Parmesan before serving.
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Red Wine: For a more indulgent touch, consider serving with a glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, which pairs beautifully with the robust flavors of the Bolognese. The tannins in the wine complement the meat and tomato sauce, enhancing the overall taste.
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Italian Antipasto: If you’re hosting a dinner party, you might also consider a selection of Italian antipasto, such as olives, prosciutto, and marinated artichokes, to start the meal. These appetizers set the tone for an Italian-inspired feast and offer a variety of textures and flavors.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Proper storage ensures that your spaghetti Bolognese remains delicious and safe to eat even after the initial meal:
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen the sauce. This prevents the sauce from becoming too thick and ensures even heating.
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Freezer: The sauce freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. Consider freezing in individual portions for easy, quick meals. This makes it convenient to enjoy a homemade meal whenever you crave it.
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Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the sauce a day in advance; the flavors will develop and intensify overnight. This makes it an excellent option for entertaining, as you can focus on other elements of your meal on the day of your gathering. Preparing ahead allows for a stress-free cooking experience.
Cooking is all about bringing people together, and this spaghetti Bolognese does just that. It’s a dish that’s both timeless and versatile, filled with love and flavor. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home, just as it is in mine. Enjoy every bite and the smiles that come with it!
Air Fryer Beef Steak
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Pat the steaks dry with paper towels.
- Rub both sides of the steaks with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place the steaks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through. Adjust the time based on desired doneness (use a meat thermometer for accuracy: 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium).
- Remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve.