Simple and Delicious Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe for Quick Family Dinners

Easy Spaghetti Bolognese A Comforting Classic

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that has become a beloved favorite around the world, particularly in the home kitchens of busy families. Its rich flavor, satisfying texture, and relatively simple preparation make it a go-to meal for many. Today, I will walk you through an easy spaghetti Bolognese recipe that you can whip up in under an hour, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

Ingredients

- 400g (14 oz) spaghetti pasta - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves of garlic, minced - 1 carrot, diced - 1 celery stick, diced - 500g (1 lb) minced beef or pork (or a mix of both) - 1 can (400g/14 oz) chopped tomatoes - 2 tablespoons tomato paste - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper, to taste - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional) - Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Preparation

1. Cook the Spaghetti Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve some pasta water for later. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. This combination, known as soffritto, forms the flavor base for your sauce.

3. Add the Garlic and Meat Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then, increase the heat slightly and add the minced meat to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. Brown the meat for about 5-6 minutes until it is no longer pink.

4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Herbs Once the meat is browned, add in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

5. Combine with Pasta If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Once the sauce is ready, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine. Make sure every strand of pasta is coated with the rich Bolognese sauce.

6. Serve Plate your spaghetti Bolognese and top it with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. A sprinkle of fresh basil can also elevate the dish, adding a burst of color and freshness.

Conclusion

And there you have it—an easy spaghetti Bolognese that is perfect for any day of the week! This dish is not only delicious but also versatile. You can tweak the recipe by adding other ingredients like bell peppers or mushrooms, or even opt for a vegetarian version by using lentils or plant-based meat substitutes.

Spaghetti Bolognese is sure to become a cherished recipe in your household, bringing everyone to the table for a comforting and satisfying meal. So next time you’re looking for a quick yet hearty dinner, remember this easy spaghetti Bolognese recipe. Enjoy your cooking and bon appétit!