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Spaghetti Bolognese is a beloved comfort food that has won the hearts of people all around the world. This dish, characterized by its rich and savory sauce, combines the delightful textures of al dente pasta with a hearty meat sauce that warms both body and soul. Its popularity can be attributed to its comforting nature, making it a favorite for family dinners, gatherings, and even special occasions.

Classic Spaghetti Bolognese

Discover the joy of making a homemade Hearty Spaghetti Bolognese, a classic comfort dish loved worldwide. This rich and savory meat sauce pairs perfectly with al dente spaghetti, making it a staple for family dinners and gatherings. Learn about the history of Bolognese sauce, explore nutritional benefits, and follow a detailed recipe with step-by-step instructions. Elevate your cooking skills and enjoy a wholesome meal that warms the soul!
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Ingredients
  

400g spaghetti

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium carrot, diced

1 celery stalk, diced

500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor)

100ml red wine (optional for depth of flavor)

400g canned chopped tomatoes (or use fresh tomatoes for a fresher taste)

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Sauté these aromatics for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

      Brown the Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks. Sauté until the meat is browned all over, approximately 5-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it from the pan.

        Deglaze with Wine: If you’re using wine, pour it into the pan now, making sure to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom with a wooden spoon. Allow the wine to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly.

          Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the canned chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce, followed by the dried oregano and dried basil. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

            Simmer the Sauce: Decrease the heat to low and let your sauce simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow cooking time helps the flavors meld beautifully. If the sauce thickens too much, feel free to add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.

              Combine with Spaghetti: Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors are well-developed, either add the cooked spaghetti directly to the sauce, or serve the sauce on top of the spaghetti—whichever you prefer. Toss everything together to ensure every strand of pasta is coated in the rich Bolognese sauce.

                Serve: Plate generous portions of the spaghetti Bolognese into serving dishes. Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your meal with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete dining experience!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4