easy spaghetti bolognese

Easy Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that has become a favorite worldwide. Its delicious and rich flavors make it a go-to meal for families, and with a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up this delightful pasta dish in no time. Whether you're cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, an easy Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is a fantastic option that never disappoints.

Ingredients

To prepare this easy Spaghetti Bolognese, you will need the following ingredients

- 400g spaghetti - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 onion, finely chopped - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork) - 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes - 2 tablespoons tomato puree - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper, to taste - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

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 the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside, but save a little pasta water for later in case you need to loosen the sauce.

2. Prepare the Sauce While the spaghetti is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Brown the Meat Add the ground beef (or beef and pork mixture) to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up, and cook until browned all over, about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings Once the meat is browned, stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook for about 15-20 minutes. This simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

5. Combine Spaghetti and Sauce After the sauce has simmered, add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the Bolognese sauce. Toss everything together until the spaghetti is well coated. If needed, adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper.

6. Serve Serve the Spaghetti Bolognese hot, topped with a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for added flavor. You can also offer some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

- Meat Choices You can experiment with different types of meat, such as turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version. - Veggie Boost For added nutrition, consider incorporating finely chopped carrots or celery into the sauce when you sauté the onion. - Make it Ahead This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and store it in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for later use.

In conclusion, an easy Spaghetti Bolognese is not only a straightforward recipe but also a comforting meal that brings people together. With its hearty flavors and simplicity, it’s a dish you can whip up on busy weeknights or serve to guests for a delightful dinner. Enjoy your cooking!