When it comes to classic comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like Spaghetti Bolognese. This hearty Italian dish pairs rich, savory meat sauce with perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that feels both rustic and indulgent. It’s the kind of recipe that has graced family tables for generations, warming hearts with every bite. Whether you’re new to home cooking or a seasoned kitchen pro, this Spaghetti Bolognese captures the essence of tradition while remaining simple enough for any weeknight dinner.

Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Spaghetti Bolognese lies in its uncomplicated ingredients, each bringing something special to the finished dish. From the foundation of aromatics to a flavorful meat base, every item adds depth, color, or a hint of richness. Here’s what you need—and why you want each one in your pot!

Olive oil: Start your dish with this for a perfect, aromatic base and a touch of Mediterranean flavor.
Onion (finely chopped): Essential for sweetness and a mellow, rounded flavor as it cooks down.
Garlic (minced): A fragrant background note that lifts every other ingredient.
Carrot (finely diced): Adds subtle sweetness and gorgeous color to the sauce.
Celery stalk (finely diced): Gives your sauce a lovely, earthy undertone and balances acidity.
Ground beef (or beef and pork mix): The soul of your Bolognese, bringing hearty, meaty richness.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens your sauce perfectly.
Crushed tomatoes: For that essential, saucy base—chunky enough for texture, smooth enough for elegance.
Beef broth: Infuses extra umami, thinning your sauce just enough for ideal consistency.
Red wine (optional): Lends depth and a bit of sophistication; don’t hesitate to include it if you have an open bottle!
Dried oregano: Brings a distinct Italian herb aroma that’s almost impossible to fake.
Dried basil: Gives a fresh, peppery kick to balance out the sweetness of the tomatoes.
Bay leaf: Just one will do—it’s subtle, but adds a note of complexity if you let it simmer.
Salt: To bring all those lovely flavors together harmoniously.
Black pepper: For a gentle warmth and finishing touch.
Spaghetti: The classic pasta pairing, best when cooked perfectly al dente to hold the sauce.
Parmesan cheese (grated): Melty, nutty, and essential for that comforting finish.
Fresh parsley (chopped): Sprinkled on top for color and a bright, herby lift at the very end.

How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery. Cook these together for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is softened and the kitchen is brimming with their savory aroma. This step builds a flavorful, aromatic base that makes the entire sauce sing.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Add your ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork if you like a complex flavor) to the pan. Break the meat apart with a spatula and cook, stirring frequently, until it’s nicely browned and there’s no more pink left. This step is where much of the savory depth of your Spaghetti Bolognese starts to shine, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Develop Flavor

Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for one minute. Doing this quick extra step helps “toast” the paste, releasing its full flavor and adding body to the sauce. The tomato aroma intensifies, promising something special ahead.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in your crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and red wine if using. Add dried oregano, basil, the bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Give it all a gentle stir and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, uncover the pan, and let it simmer for 30 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally; as the sauce reduces, it thickens and the flavors truly meld into classic Spaghetti Bolognese perfection.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While your sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions, aiming for that ideal al dente texture. Once done, drain the spaghetti well—never rinse!—so it will hold onto every drop of sauce.

Step 6: Bring it All Together

Remove the bay leaf from the sauce. Toss the hot spaghetti with your luscious Bolognese sauce, making sure every strand is beautifully coated. Now comes the finishing flourish: top it all with a generous shower of grated Parmesan and a good sprinkle of chopped parsley for color and fresh flavor.

How to Serve Spaghetti Bolognese

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a dusting of chopped parsley is classic for Spaghetti Bolognese. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add a few shavings of pecorino or even a drizzle of good olive oil for a more luxurious finish.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a punchy vinaigrette and a basket of warm, crusty Italian bread are natural companions for Spaghetti Bolognese. If you’re serving a group, set out roasted vegetables or garlicky green beans for a little extra color and nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, you can twirl noodles into nests with a big ladle and set them in shallow bowls, topping each serving with a rich spoonful of sauce. Serving Spaghetti Bolognese family-style in a large, beautiful platter always brings a festive air to the table, encouraging everyone to help themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow any extra Spaghetti Bolognese to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep happily in the fridge for up to three days, and the flavor often deepens on day two!

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the sauce (without pasta) in labeled airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat—perfect for a busy night.

Reheating

Gently warm refrigerated or thawed sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened a bit too much, just loosen it with a splash of water or broth. Toss with fresh-cooked spaghetti before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I make Spaghetti Bolognese ahead of time?

Absolutely—Bolognese sauce actually improves when made ahead and reheated, allowing the flavors to deepen. Just cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.

What if I don’t have red wine?

No problem! You can skip the red wine and still have a tasty result, or substitute with a bit more beef broth. The wine just adds depth, but your Spaghetti Bolognese will be delicious either way.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can use turkey or chicken for a lighter twist. You might want to add a teaspoon or two of olive oil since leaner meats can be drier, and boost the seasoning a little.

Is it possible to make Spaghetti Bolognese gluten-free?

Just swap regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta! The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy Spaghetti Bolognese worry-free.

Can I add extra veggies to the sauce?

Of course! Feel free to throw in diced zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for more texture and nutrition. Just sauté them with the carrots and celery to keep everything harmonious.

Final Thoughts

Classic, satisfying, and full of old-world flavor, Spaghetti Bolognese is always a hit around the table. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a new favorite in your own home kitchen!