Ah, the comforting embrace of a bowl of Easy Spaghetti Bolognese! I can’t help but smile every time I prepare this classic dish. It’s one of those meals that instantly brings back memories of family gatherings around the dinner table, where laughter mixes with the aroma of simmering tomato sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s simple to make, yet it feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. When I whip up this recipe, I’m immediately transported back to my childhood, where an overcooked spaghetti was always my dad’s specialty. With a few practice rounds, I’ve managed to master it, and now I’m excited to share my version with you!
The beauty of Spaghetti Bolognese is its versatility. It’s a fantastic dish for a quick weeknight dinner but can also impress if you have guests over. Not to mention, if you follow me to the kitchen, I’ll show you how I jazz it up with a few twists along the way. Are you ready? Let’s get cooking!
What’s in Easy Spaghetti Bolognese?
– Spaghetti: The classic pasta choice! I usually go for whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber, but regular works just as well. Cook it until al dente for that perfect bite.
– Olive oil: This liquid gold is a must for sautéing the aromatic veggies. I’ve tried various brands, and I find that a good quality extra virgin olive oil elevates the dish.
– Onion: A finely chopped onion is the flavor base of this sauce, adding sweetness and depth. Don’t worry about tearing up; it’ll be worth it!
– Carrot: Diced carrot brings a subtle sweetness; it’s like a sneaky veggie that enhances the sauce without being overpowering.
– Celery (Optional): If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some diced celery! It adds a lovely crunch and complements the other veggies perfectly.
– Garlic: Oh, garlic—my favorite! Minced garlic gives the dish that irresistible aroma. Trust me, there’s no such thing as too much!
– Ground beef: This is where the magic happens! You can opt for lean ground beef, or if you’re in the mood for something different, try ground turkey or plant-based mince.
– Diced tomatoes: A 400g can packs a ton of flavor and juiciness into the sauce. You could also go for fresh tomatoes if they’re in season.
– Tomato paste: A couple of tablespoons of this rich paste helps thicken your sauce and deepen the tomato flavor. I always keep a little extra on hand for when I’m feeling saucy!
– Dried oregano & dried basil: These herbs are essential for that aromatic Italian flair. If you have fresh herbs, feel free to use those instead for an even brighter flavor.
– Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning goes a long way in enhancing the flavors. Don’t be shy; season to taste!
– Grated Parmesan cheese: No Spaghetti Bolognese is complete without that final cheesy topping. It adds a nice salty kick and creamy texture.
Is Easy Spaghetti Bolognese Good for You?
If you’re wondering whether this dish is a friend or foe on your health journey, let’s break it down!
– Spaghetti: Whole grain options can add more fiber to your meal, which is great for digestion.
– Ground beef: While a great source of protein, lean cuts are advisable if you’re watching your fat intake. I often switch it up with ground turkey or even lentils for a plant-based version—still delish!
– Veggies: Those onions, carrots, and who could forget garlic? They’re packed with nutrients and antioxidants.
– Tomatoes: These beauties are rich in vitamins and lycopene, beneficial for heart health.
But here’s a tip: watch the portion sizes, especially with the pasta, and balance your plate with a side of salad or veggies for a complete meal!
Ingredients
– 200g spaghetti
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 carrot, diced
– 1 celery stalk, diced (optional)
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 400g ground beef (or minced beef)
– 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
This recipe serves about 2-3 people, depending on how hungry everyone is!
How to Make Easy Spaghetti Bolognese?
1. Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain it and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and celery (if you’re using it), and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they’re softened and aromatic.
3. Stir in that delicious minced garlic, letting it cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. Ah, the smell is heavenly!
4. Toss in the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon. Cook it until it’s browned all over – about 5-7 minutes should do it.
5. Next, add in the can of diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Turn down the heat to low and let that sauce worry about thickening for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
7. Serve the rich sauce over the cooked spaghetti and don’t forget to sprinkle that grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Extra Tweaks for Your Bolognese
Feeling creative? Here are some fun ways to switch things up:
– Top the dish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
– For a bolder sauce, add a splash of red wine while it’s simmering. Trust me; it balances the flavors beautifully!
– Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to make it a complete meal. You can’t go wrong with a little crunch alongside that rich sauce!
I can’t wait for you to try this Easy Spaghetti Bolognese! It’s practically foolproof and sure to impress both family and friends. After you whip it up in your own kitchen, I’d love to hear how it went. Did you make any fun adjustments, or did you stick to the classic recipe? Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!