Simple and Delicious Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

  Simple and Delicious Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

Spaghetti Bolognese is a comforting and classic dish that brings warmth to any table. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, this recipe will help you create a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with your favourite pasta.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 slices smoked streaky bacon, finely chopped
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary, leaves picked and finely chopped
• 500g beef mince

For the Bolognese Sauce:

• 2 x 400g cans of plum tomatoes
• Small bunch of fresh basil, ¾ chopped and the rest left whole for garnish
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tbsp tomato purée
• 1 beef stock cube
• 1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped (optional)
• 125ml red wine
• 6 cherry tomatoes, halved

To Season and Serve:

• 75g grated Parmesan, plus extra for serving
• 400g spaghetti
• Crusty bread (optional)

Method

Step 1: Sauté the Bacon and Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until golden and crispy, about 10 minutes.

Lower the heat slightly, then toss the finely chopped onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and rosemary. Cook for another 10 minutes, stirring regularly until the vegetables soften and release their flavours.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Increase the heat to medium-high, and add the beef mince to the pan. Cook the meat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned all over, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the cans of plum tomatoes, and crush them gently with your spoon to help them break down. Stir in the chopped basil, dried oregano, bay leaves, tomato purée, beef stock cube, red chilli (if using), red wine, and cherry tomatoes. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmering process will thicken the sauce and intensify its flavours.

Step 5: Final Touches

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese once the sauce is rich and thick. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Cook the Spaghetti

As the sauce nears completion, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

You can either mix the drained spaghetti directly into the sauce or serve the sauce on top of the pasta. Garnish with the remaining basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan. Serve with crusty bread on the side, if you like.

Conclusion

This Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is perfect for any occasion, delivering a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to please. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or impressing guests, this dish is a winner every time. Enjoy your cooking!