Classic Spaghetti Bolognese: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Have you ever wondered what makes a truly authentic Spaghetti Bolognese so irresistible? That rich, meaty sauce simmering for hours, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that transport you straight to an Italian trattoria? This classic bolognese, beef bolognese, italian meat sauce recipe has been perfected over generations, combining simple ingredients into one of the world’s most beloved comfort dishes. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking to impress guests, mastering this timeless recipe will earn you serious culinary credibility.
Ingredients List
For the perfect Spaghetti Bolognese, you’ll need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (ideally 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 4 oz (115g) pancetta or bacon, finely diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup (240ml) dry red wine (Chianti works beautifully)
- 28 oz (800g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup (240ml) beef stock
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Substitutions: Ground turkey can replace beef for a lighter option. Vegetable stock works instead of beef stock. No wine? Use additional stock with 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar.