easy spaghetti bolognese sauce

Easy Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce

Spaghetti Bolognese is a beloved classic that has made its way into homes around the world thanks to its comforting flavors and satisfying nature. While there are countless recipes out there, creating an easy version allows you to whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This article will guide you through a simple yet effective approach to making the perfect Spaghetti Bolognese sauce that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

To make an easy Spaghetti Bolognese sauce, you will need the following ingredients

- 400g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for added flavor) - 1 large onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves of garlic, minced - 1 carrot, diced - 1 celery stick, diced - 400g canned chopped tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes if in season) - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 150ml beef or vegetable stock - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - A splash of red wine (optional) - Olive oil for cooking - 400g spaghetti - Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

1. Sauté the Vegetables Begin by heating a generous splash of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook it until it turns translucent, usually around 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery. Sauté these for another 5–7 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.

2. Cook the Meat After the vegetables are tender, increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. Ensure that it’s browned evenly, which will take about 8–10 minutes. At this stage, if you choose to use red wine, add it to the pan and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate.

3. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings Once the meat is nicely browned, stir in the canned chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and stock. Sprinkle the dried oregano and basil into the mix. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined.

4. Simmer the Sauce Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 20-30 minutes. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so be patient! If the sauce becomes too thick, feel free to add a bit more stock or water.

5. Cook the Spaghetti While your sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining!

6. Combine and Finish Once the spaghetti is cooked and drained, add it directly to the pan with the Bolognese sauce. Toss everything together, allowing the pasta to soak up the flavorful sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

7. Serve Plate the spaghetti Bolognese into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

Enjoying a plate of easy Spaghetti Bolognese is a delightful experience that brings comfort and satisfaction. This recipe not only simplifies the cooking process but also celebrates the rich flavors that make this dish a family favorite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual gathering with friends, this easy Spaghetti Bolognese sauce is sure to please. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bring the taste of Italy to your table!