What is Spaghetti Bolognese?

Spaghetti Bolognese is a traditional Italian pasta dish made with spaghetti noodles and a rich, savory meat sauce known as Bolognese sauce. The sauce typically includes ground beef, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs, and is simmered to perfection to develop deep flavors.

What wine pairs well with Spaghetti Bolognese?

A medium to full-bodied red wine like Chianti, Sangiovese, or Barbera pairs well with Spaghetti Bolognese, complementing the rich flavors of the meat sauce.

What type of meat is used in this recipe?

This recipe uses minced steak (ground beef), which adds a hearty texture and flavor to the Bolognese sauce.

Can I use other types of meat besides minced steak?

Yes, you can substitute minced steak with ground pork, turkey, chicken, or even a combination of meats for a different flavor profile.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and the cooking time is 2 hours, totaling around 2 hours and 20 minutes.

What gives the sauce its rich flavor?

The depth of flavor in the sauce comes from slow cooking the minced meat with onions, garlic, herbs, and a combination of chopped tomatoes and tomato paste over low heat for 2 hours, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully.

Is it necessary to use whole tomatoes, or can I use diced tomatoes instead?

While whole peeled tomatoes offer a more authentic texture, you can use diced tomatoes as a substitute. Just ensure they are good quality and simmered long enough to break down properly.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?

Yes, but you'll need to blanch and peel them first. Canned tomatoes are preferred for convenience and consistent flavor, especially San Marzano tomatoes for authenticity.

What kind of pasta should I use if I don’t have spaghetti?

You can use other pasta types like fettuccine, linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne. The sauce pairs well with most pasta shapes that hold sauce well.

How do I prevent the meat from clumping together when browning it?

Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the meat as it cooks over medium-high heat. Stir frequently and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?

Absolutely. Bolognese sauce actually tastes better the next day. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian Bolognese by using lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat alternatives in place of the beef.

What can I serve with Spaghetti Bolognese besides parmesan cheese?

You can serve it with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, allow the Bolognese sauce to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

How do I adjust the seasoning to my taste?

Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the salt, pepper, herbs, or even add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

What’s the difference between Bolognese sauce and marinara sauce?

Bolognese is a meat-based sauce simmered for hours, while marinara is a simpler tomato-based sauce without meat, typically cooked quickly with garlic and herbs.

Can I make this recipe with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option?

Yes, ground chicken or turkey can be used for a leaner version. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious with the right seasoning.

Is there a spicy version of this dish for those who like heat?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes, chopped chili, or a dash of hot sauce to give the sauce a spicy kick without compromising the classic flavor.

Are there any gluten-free alternatives for the pasta?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Make sure to cook it according to package instructions to avoid overcooking.

Can I make a larger batch of this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Simply double or triple the ingredients and use a large pot. The sauce stores and reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings.

Spaghetti Bolognese

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★★★★☆

Spaghetti Bolognese

Course: Dinner
Servings: 5 servings
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Calories: 290 kcal (per serving)

A classic Italian-inspired dish with a rich, meaty sauce served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. Slow-simmered for deep flavors, it’s a beloved comfort food, featuring minced steak, onions, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Topped with grated parmesan, it’s a timeless favorite.

Ingredients

2 medium onions
750g (1.5 pounds) minced steak
470g (15 ounces) can of whole tomatoes
3 tablespoons of tomato paste
1 teaspoon of basil
1 teaspoon of oregano
1/2 teaspoon of thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1.25 liters (5 cups) of water
Grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

Heat some oil in a large saucepan. Add the peeled and chopped onions and sauté until tender.
Add the minced steak and stir over high heat until dark golden brown. Mash well to break up the meat.
Add the undrained tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, and thyme. Mix thoroughly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour in the water and stir. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 2 hours until most of the liquid evaporates.
Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
Serve the Bolognese sauce over hot spaghetti and top with grated parmesan cheese.
Enjoy your homemade Spaghetti Bolognese!

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 400–500
Fat: 15–20 grams
Protein: 20–25 grams
Carbohydrates: 40–50 grams
Fiber: 5–7 grams
Sodium: 600–800 milligrams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spaghetti Bolognese?
Spaghetti Bolognese is a traditional Italian pasta dish made with spaghetti noodles and a rich, savory meat sauce known as Bolognese sauce. The sauce typically includes ground beef, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs, and is simmered to perfection to develop deep flavors.
What wine pairs well with Spaghetti Bolognese?
A medium to full-bodied red wine like Chianti, Sangiovese, or Barbera pairs well with Spaghetti Bolognese, complementing the rich flavors of the meat sauce.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses minced steak (ground beef), which adds a hearty texture and flavor to the Bolognese sauce.
Can I use other types of meat besides minced steak?
Yes, you can substitute minced steak with ground pork, turkey, chicken, or even a combination of meats for a different flavor profile.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and the cooking time is 2 hours, totaling around 2 hours and 20 minutes.
What gives the sauce its rich flavor?
The depth of flavor in the sauce comes from slow cooking the minced meat with onions, garlic, herbs, and a combination of chopped tomatoes and tomato paste over low heat for 2 hours, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully.
Is it necessary to use whole tomatoes, or can I use diced tomatoes instead?
While whole peeled tomatoes offer a more authentic texture, you can use diced tomatoes as a substitute. Just ensure they are good quality and simmered long enough to break down properly.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones?
Yes, but you'll need to blanch and peel them first. Canned tomatoes are preferred for convenience and consistent flavor, especially San Marzano tomatoes for authenticity.
What kind of pasta should I use if I don’t have spaghetti?
You can use other pasta types like fettuccine, linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne. The sauce pairs well with most pasta shapes that hold sauce well.
How do I prevent the meat from clumping together when browning it?
Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the meat as it cooks over medium-high heat. Stir frequently and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Absolutely. Bolognese sauce actually tastes better the next day. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian Bolognese by using lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat alternatives in place of the beef.
What can I serve with Spaghetti Bolognese besides parmesan cheese?
You can serve it with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, allow the Bolognese sauce to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
How do I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the salt, pepper, herbs, or even add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
What’s the difference between Bolognese sauce and marinara sauce?
Bolognese is a meat-based sauce simmered for hours, while marinara is a simpler tomato-based sauce without meat, typically cooked quickly with garlic and herbs.
Can I make this recipe with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option?
Yes, ground chicken or turkey can be used for a leaner version. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious with the right seasoning.
Is there a spicy version of this dish for those who like heat?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes, chopped chili, or a dash of hot sauce to give the sauce a spicy kick without compromising the classic flavor.
Are there any gluten-free alternatives for the pasta?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Make sure to cook it according to package instructions to avoid overcooking.
Can I make a larger batch of this recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Simply double or triple the ingredients and use a large pot. The sauce stores and reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings.

Tags: classic cuisine, comfort food, cooking at home, cooking tips, delicious, dinner, dinner ideas, easy recipe, family meal, hearty, homemade, Italian, Italian cooking, Italian recipe, meal prep, minced steak, pasta, savory, Spaghetti Bolognese, tomato sauce, traditional

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