Best Spaghetti Bolognese Recipes you should try (Quick and Easy)

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that has gained immense popularity worldwide. It is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion, be it a quick weekday dinner or a special family gathering. 

The dish features spaghetti noodles with a rich and flavorful meat sauce called Bolognese sauce. The sauce is usually made with ground beef, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of herbs and spices, giving it a robust and savoury taste. 

Spaghetti Bolognese is a beloved dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds, making it a staple in many households. In this article, we will explore the history, ingredients, variations of this classic dish and tips on how to perfect it.

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Ingredients for Spaghetti Bolognese

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 4 rashers smoked streaky bacon

• 2 medium onions, 

• 2 carrots, trimmed 

• 2 celery sticks, 

• 2 garlic cloves 

• 2-3 sprigs of rosemary leaves

• 500g beef mince

Bolognese Sauce

• 2 x 400g tins plum tomatoes
• A small pack of basil leaves picked, ¾ finely chopped, and the rest left whole for garnish
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 fresh bay leaves
• 2 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 beef stock cube
• 1 red chilli deseeded
• 125ml red wine
• 6 cherry tomatoes sliced in half

For Season and Serve

• 75g parmesan grated, plus extra to serve

• 400g spaghetti

• crusty bread

Importance of the Basic Ingredients for Spaghetti Bolognese

The ingredients for Spaghetti Bolognese can vary slightly depending on personal preference and the recipe used, but the basic components include 

1. Ground beef

This is the primary ingredient for the Bolognese sauce, and it is usually made with lean ground beef. However, some recipes use ground pork, veal, or a combination of different meats.

2. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a crucial ingredient in the Bolognese sauce, and they can be used in different forms, such as canned tomatoes, tomato paste, or fresh tomatoes.

3. Onions and garlic

These aromatics add depth of flavour to the sauce and are usually sautéed with ground beef.

Carrots and celery

These vegetables are commonly used to add sweetness and balance the acidity of the tomatoes. They are usually finely chopped and sautéed with onions and garlic.

Red wine

This is an optional ingredient but is commonly used to enhance the flavour of the Bolognese sauce.

Herbs and spices

Common herbs and spices used in the Bolognese sauce include bay leaves, oregano, thyme, and basil. Salt and pepper are also used to season the sauce.

Spaghetti noodles

Spaghetti noodles are used to serve the Bolognese sauce and can be cooked according to personal preference.

Parmesan cheese

Parmesan cheese is commonly used to garnish Spaghetti Bolognese and add a salty and nutty flavour.

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How to cook Spaghetti Bolognese. 

• Put a large saucepan on medium heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil.
• Add 4 finely chopped bacon rashers and fry for 10 mins until golden and crisp.
• Reduce the heat and add the 2 onions, 2 carrots, 2 celery sticks, 2 garlic cloves, and the leaves from 2-3 sprigs of rosemary, all finely chopped, then fry for 10 mins. Stir the veg often until it softens.
• Increase the heat to medium-high, add 500g beef mince, and cook, stirring for 3-4 mins until the meat is browned all over.
• Add 2 tins plum tomatoes, the finely chopped leaves from ¾ small pack basil, 1 tsp dried oregano, 2 bay leaves, 2 tbsp tomato purée, 1 beef stock cube, 1 deseeded and finely chopped red chilli (if using), 125ml red wine and 6 halved cherry tomatoes. Stir with a wooden spoon, breaking up the plum tomatoes.
• Bring to a boil, reduce to a gentle simmer, and cover with a lid. Cook for 1 hr 15 mins stirring occasionally, until you have a rich, thick sauce.
• Add the 75g grated parmesan, check the seasoning, and stir.
• When the bolognese is nearly finished, cook 400g of spaghetti following the pack instructions.
• Drain the spaghetti and stir it into the bolognese sauce or serve it on top. Serve with more grated parmesan, the remaining basil leaves, and crusty bread, if you like.

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Spaghetti Bolognese Variations. 

There are many variations of spaghetti bolognese that can be made to suit different tastes and dietary requirements. 

Here are a few examples:

Vegetarian Spaghetti Bolognese

Instead of using ground beef, substitute with plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms.

Spicy Spaghetti Bolognese

Add chilli flakes, paprika, or cayenne pepper to the sauce to give it a kick of heat.

Creamy Spaghetti Bolognese

Add heavy cream or sour cream to the sauce to make it creamier and richer.

Gluten-free Spaghetti Bolognese

Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles instead of regular spaghetti to make the dish gluten-free.

Spaghetti Bolognese with Wine

Add a splash of red wine to the sauce to enhance the flavour.

Spaghetti Bolognese with Cheese

Add grated Parmesan cheese or other types of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar to the sauce or sprinkle on top before serving.

Spaghetti Bolognese with Bacon

Add crispy bacon bits to the sauce for a smoky flavor.

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Health Benefits of Spaghetti Bolognese Ingredients 

1. Oregano

Oregano is a culinary herb known for its peppery and pungent taste. In addition to bringing a unique flavour and aroma to pasta recipes, oregano also offers several potential health benefits, thanks to the presence of natural compounds like carvacrol and thymol. Oregano extract could act as an antioxidant and slow the growth of certain types of bacteria.

2. Rosemary Oil

This fragrant herb has a slightly sweet taste and distinct aroma that works well in a wide range of recipes, including pasta.

Besides adding an extra dose of flavor to dishes, rosemary may also possess potent health-promoting properties. It’s also rich in several antioxidants and beneficial compounds, including rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, eugenol, and carnosol. 

3. Red pepper flakes

Red pepper flakes are made from dried and crushed red chilli peppers. People often use them to dial up the heat and nutritional value of many different pasta dishes.

They contain capsaicin, the compound that gives chilis their spiciness. They are known to alleviate pain and speed up metabolism to help you maintain a moderate weight.

4. Garlic

Adding garlic powder to your pasta can be a convenient and easy way to take advantage of garlic’s many health benefits. Garlic helps lower cholesterol, decrease inflammation, and support healthy blood pressure levels. 

While Spaghetti Bolognese is often considered a comfort food, it does provide some health benefits when consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. 

Here are some potential health benefits of Spaghetti Bolognese:

5. Protein

Spaghetti Bolognese contains protein from ground beef or turkey, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

6. Vitamins and Minerals

The dish also contains vitamins and minerals from the tomato sauce, onion, garlic, and other vegetables, which can help support overall health and well-being.

7. Antioxidants

Tomatoes, which are a key ingredient in Spaghetti Bolognese, are a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect against cellular damage and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

8. Fiber

Spaghetti Bolognese made with whole-grain pasta can be a good source of fibre, which is important for digestion and can help lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other health conditions.

9. Low-Carb Options

Many low-carb variations of Spaghetti Bolognese are available that use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta, which can be a good option for those watching their carbohydrate intake.

It’s worth noting that Spaghetti Bolognese can also be high in calories, fat, and sodium depending on the recipe and serving size, so it’s important to enjoy it in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.

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Spaghetti Bolognese Serving Suggestions

Here are some serving suggestions for spaghetti bolognese:

1. Garlic bread

Serve your spaghetti bolognese with some garlic bread on the side. The buttery, garlicky flavour pairs perfectly with the rich tomato sauce.

2. Parmesan cheese

Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese over the top of your spaghetti bolognese. The salty, nutty flavour adds depth and richness to the dish.

3. Salad

Serve a simple green salad on the side of your spaghetti bolognese for a fresh, crisp contrast to the warm pasta.

4. Wine

Pair your spaghetti bolognese with a nice red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese. The acidity and tannins in the wine will complement the acidity and richness of the tomato sauce.

5. Vegetables

Add some vegetables to your spaghetti bolognese, such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini, for added nutrition and flavour.

6. Breadsticks

Dip breadsticks in the tomato sauce of your spaghetti bolognese for a delicious and satisfying bite.

7. Fresh herbs

Garnish your spaghetti bolognese with some fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for a pop of colour and flavour.

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Conclusion 

Spaghetti bolognese is a classic dish for many reasons. Firstly, it is a comforting and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The combination of tender spaghetti noodles and rich meaty tomato sauce is a crowd-pleaser that has stood the test of time.

Secondly, spaghetti bolognese is easy to make and can be customized to suit individual tastes. With a few simple ingredients, anyone can whip up a delicious batch of spaghetti bolognese in no time.

Thirdly, spaghetti bolognese is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, from a casual family dinner to a fancy dinner party. It can be paired with garlic bread, Parmesan cheese, salad, and wine to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Lastly, spaghetti bolognese has a rich history and cultural significance. It originated in Bologna, Italy, and has since become a beloved dish all over the world. Its popularity has led to countless variations and adaptations, making it a truly global cuisine.

Overall, spaghetti bolognese is a classic dish that is here to stay. Its delicious taste, easy preparation, versatility, and cultural significance make it a go-to meal for any occasion.

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