This Classic Spaghetti Bolognese is your ticket to a comforting, homemade Italian meal. With a rich, savory sauce simmered to perfection, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.
Ground beef is the heart of the Bolognese, providing a robust, meaty flavor. Choosing high-quality beef can make a big difference in taste. Olive oil adds richness and helps to sauté the vegetables to perfection. The onion, garlic, carrot, and celery form a classic soffritto, which is the flavor base of many Italian dishes, providing sweetness and depth. Crushed tomatoes and tomato paste contribute to the sauce’s rich tomato flavor, while red wine adds a layer of complexity and enhances the sauce's depth. Finally, oregano and basil give it that unmistakable Italian aroma and taste.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinegar. Add some garlic bread on the side for an extra touch of indulgence. A glass of the same red wine used in the sauce would also complement the flavors nicely.
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. You’ll want to cook these veggies until they're nice and soft, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the foundational flavors of your sauce.
Next, add in the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until it's browned all over. Browning the meat properly will add a deliciously deep flavor to your sauce.
Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato paste. Let it cook for a couple of minutes to intensify its flavor. This is where the magic starts to happen, as the paste caramelizes slightly and melds with your beef.
Pour in the red wine and bring everything to a simmer. This not only deglazes the pan but also infuses the sauce with a rich, complex flavor. Allow it to reduce slightly, for about 3-5 minutes.
Now, stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and season with salt and pepper to your taste. Let everything simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the sauce thickens and all the flavors meld beautifully together.
While the sauce is simmering, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, as it will have a perfect bite to complement the rich sauce.
Serve the Bolognese sauce generously over the spaghetti and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and savor every bite!
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