Learn how to make the best homemade spaghetti bolognese with simple ingredients. A step-by-step recipe for rich, authentic Italian pasta sauce perfect for family dinners.
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm bowl of Spaghetti Bolognese. Loved by millions worldwide, this Italian classic is flavorful, filling, and surprisingly easy to prepare at home. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving some pasta, this recipe will give you a rich, authentic sauce that tastes like it’s straight from Italy.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
✅ The best ingredients to use for authentic taste
✅ Step-by-step cooking instructions
✅ Tips for thick, rich sauce
✅ Variations to try (vegan, spicy, or budget-friendly)
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the sauce:
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef (or half beef + half pork for richer flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth (or red wine for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
For serving:
- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
- Fresh Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook on medium heat for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Step 2: Add the Meat
Stir in the ground beef (or beef + pork mix). Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Build the Flavor
Add minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth (or wine). Stir well.
Step 4: Simmer Slowly
Add oregano, basil, and bay leaf. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for at least 30–40 minutes (longer = richer flavor). Stir occasionally.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: Serve
Remove bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning. Toss pasta with sauce or serve with sauce on top. Garnish with Parmesan and fresh basil.
Pro Tips for the Best Spaghetti Bolognese
- Go slow: The longer the sauce simmers, the deeper the flavor.
- Use wine: A splash of red wine adds authentic richness.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a little milk or cream before serving.
- Meal prep: This sauce freezes well—make a big batch and save for later.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Bolognese: Add chili flakes or chopped jalapeños.
- Vegan Bolognese: Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms.
- Budget-friendly: Use chicken mince instead of beef.
- Low-carb option: Serve with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze spaghetti bolognese?
Yes! Let the sauce cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
2. What pasta goes best with Bolognese sauce?
Traditionally, Bolognese is served with tagliatelle, but spaghetti is the most popular worldwide.
3. Can I make this without beef?
Absolutely. Try ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork for different flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or even weekly meal prep. It’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor yet simple enough for beginner cooks.
So, next time you’re craving pasta, skip the jarred sauce and try this authentic recipe. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!
