simple spaghetti bolognese recipe for a delicious family dinner in under 30 minutes

Easy Spaghetti Bolognese

If you're looking for a simple yet delicious dish to prepare for dinner, look no further than Spaghetti Bolognese. This classic Italian favorite is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you're cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe can be a crowd-pleaser. With a few basic ingredients and steps, you can create a delightful meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

- 400 grams of spaghetti - 300 grams of ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork) - 1 onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves of garlic, minced - 1 carrot, finely chopped - 1 celery stalk, finely chopped - 1 can (400 grams) of diced tomatoes - 2 tablespoons of tomato paste - 1 teaspoon of dried oregano - 1 teaspoon of dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - Olive oil - Fresh basil for garnish (optional) - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients Start by finely chopping the onion, carrot, and celery. Mince the garlic. This combination of vegetables is known as a soffritto and will form the base of your sauce.

2. Cook the Spaghetti Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

4. Add Garlic and Meat Once the vegetables are ready, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

5. Build the Sauce After the meat is browned, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

6. Combine with Pasta Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked spaghetti directly to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If you prefer, you can also serve the sauce over the spaghetti on individual plates.

7. Serve and Enjoy Plate up your spaghetti Bolognese and, if desired, garnish with fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty meal!

Conclusion

This easy Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is not only quick to prepare but also full of flavor and comforting goodness. It's perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or whenever you're craving a taste of Italy. By using simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, you can impress your family or guests with this delicious dish. So roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating a wonderful meal that everyone will love!