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Spaghetti Bolognese

A classic hearty dish featuring a rich sauce over spaghetti, perfect for family dinners and entertaining guests.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 680

Ingredients
  

For the sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.5 onion grated (about 100g/3.5oz)
  • 1 carrot grated (about 100g/3.5oz)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 500 g lean beef mince
  • 2 tbsp tomato puree
  • 150 ml red wine
  • 800 g canned chopped tomatoes
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 tbsp whole milk
  • 1 pinch salt and black pepper
For the pasta
  • 300 g dried spaghetti

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the grated carrot and onion, stir gently, then add minced garlic, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sweat the vegetables for about 2 minutes until soft but not browned.
  3. Push the vegetables to the sides of the pan to make a well in the center, then add the minced beef. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until mostly browned.
  4. Create a well again, add tomato puree, and stir for 30 seconds to cook off the metallic taste.
  5. Add red wine, cooking for a couple of minutes until it reduces to a syrup.
  6. Stir in the canned tomatoes and Worcestershire sauce, bringing to a simmer.
Cooking
  1. Cook the spaghetti in boiling, salted water according to package instructions, usually around 8 minutes for al dente.
  2. Simmer the bolognese sauce for 5-6 minutes until it darkens and the tomatoes lose metallic taste.
  3. Stir in the milk for a creamy finish.
Serving
  1. Drain the spaghetti, serve on plates, and top with the bolognese sauce.

Notes

Serve hot with grated cheese on top. Pairs well with garlic bread and a fresh salad. Don’t rush cooking the vegetables; it helps to bring out their sweetness. Use good quality minced beef for a richer taste. Let the sauce simmer longer to deepen flavors. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for variety.