Spaghetti Bolognese

A classic Italian meat sauce simmered with tomatoes and aromatics, served over tender spaghetti. Rich, savory, and deeply satisfying comfort food.

italianbeefpastacomfort foodweeknight dinner

Ingredients

1
Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
2
Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery (the soffritto). Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
3
Add minced garlic and tomato paste. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4
Pour in red wine and simmer until reduced by half, about 3 minutes.
5
Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, and bay leaf. Stir well.
6
Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and darken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
8
If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach desired consistency.
9
Divide cooked spaghetti among serving bowls. Ladle generous portions of Bolognese sauce over the pasta.
10
Top with grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Serve immediately.

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