Classic Spaghetti Bolognese with Parmesan

Classic Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless Italian comfort dish loved around the world. It features a rich, hearty meat sauce simmered with tomatoes, aromatic vegetables, and herbs, served over perfectly cooked spaghetti and topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

This dish is all about layering flavors—slow-cooked onions, garlic, carrots, and celery combine with ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork) to create a deep, savory base.

The sauce is gently simmered until thick, hearty, and bursting with flavor. Served over al dente pasta and finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish is both comforting and indulgent. It’s ideal for family dinners, casual weeknight meals, or even special occasions when you want a rustic, satisfying Italian feast.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the ultimate comfort food that satisfies both heart and soul. The slow-cooked sauce fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas, and the rich, savory flavor of the meat sauce paired with perfectly cooked spaghetti is unbeatable.

It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table, easy to make, and utterly delicious. Plus, it’s versatile—you can tweak the herbs, meats, or vegetables to suit your preferences, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• Rich and hearty – perfect for satisfying hunger and warming up on cold nights.
• Classic Italian flavor – traditional, authentic, and universally loved.
• Family-friendly – kids and adults alike enjoy this dish.
• Customizable – adjust meat, veggies, or herbs to taste.
• Easy to prepare ahead – sauce improves when simmered longer or made in advance.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 4–6 servings
• Calories: ~520 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Bolognese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium carrot, finely diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 500 g (1 lb) ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 (400 g/14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• ½ cup red wine (optional, can substitute with broth)
• ½ cup milk (optional, for richer sauce)

For the Spaghetti:

• 400 g (14 oz) spaghetti
• Salt for pasta water

To Serve:

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until soft.
2. Brown the ground meat, seasoning with salt, pepper, and herbs.
3. Stir in tomato paste, wine, and crushed tomatoes; simmer.
4. Add milk, simmer gently for 45–60 minutes.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
6. Serve sauce over spaghetti, topped with Parmesan.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1 – Sauté Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
• Add onion, carrot, and celery; sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and fragrant.
• Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.

Step 2 – Brown the Meat

• Add ground beef (or beef-pork mix) to the pan.
• Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no pink remains.
• Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.

Step 3 – Add Tomato & Wine

• Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.
• Add crushed tomatoes and red wine (if using).
• Toss in bay leaf and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4 – Simmer the Sauce

• Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add milk during the last 10 minutes for a richer, smoother sauce.

Step 5 – Cook Spaghetti

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain, reserving a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 6 – Serve

• Toss spaghetti with a portion of the sauce or plate the spaghetti and ladle sauce on top.
• Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and optional fresh basil or parsley.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a main course.
• Pair with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, and a glass of red wine for a complete Italian meal.
• Optional: drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top for added richness.

Recipe Tips

• Simmer sauce low and slow for the richest flavor.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
• Use a mix of beef and pork for a more traditional, flavorful sauce.
• Add a pinch of sugar if tomatoes are too acidic.
• Make ahead: sauce can be prepared a day in advance and reheated.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute meat with lentils, mushrooms, or a meat alternative.
• Spicy Twist: Add red chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or mascarpone at the end.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option.
• Herbal Twist: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley while simmering.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store sauce in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave; add a splash of water if thickened.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Large pot for pasta
• Grater for Parmesan

FAQ

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, but the sauce may be less rich; consider adding a bit more olive oil.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown meat and sauté aromatics first, then combine in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.

Q: Do I have to add wine?
No, you can substitute with broth or extra tomato sauce. Wine adds depth but is optional.

Q: Can I use jarred pasta sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?
Yes, but check seasoning and reduce salt as needed.

Q: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavor improves when it sits overnight. Reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

Classic Spaghetti Bolognese with Parmesan is the ultimate comfort food—rich, savory, and deeply satisfying. Its slow-simmered sauce, combined with tender pasta and topped with fresh Parmesan, makes it a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or special occasions. Simple ingredients come together to create a timeless, crowd-pleasing meal that embodies the heart of Italian cooking.