The Best Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe -( Homemade Bolognese )

Spaghetti Bolognese holds a special place in my heart, not just because it's incredibly delicious, but also because of its versatility and simplicity. With just a handful of basic ingredients and a little bit of love, you can whip up a mouthwatering meal that's sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters. From tender minced meat simmered in a luscious tomato sauce to perfectly cooked spaghetti strands twirled on your fork, every bite of this dish is a culinary delight.

What makes this Spaghetti Bolognese recipe truly special is its simplicity and depth of flavour. By using just a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients, you can create a dish that's both wholesome and delicious. Plus, with its hearty texture and rich taste, this meal is perfect for cosy nights in or casual gatherings with friends and family. The Bolognese Sauce is rich, and thick and has a beautiful depth of flavour. It’s perfect for a quick midweek meal but even better if you can simmer it for a couple of hours! And let's not forget about the convenience factor – with enough bolognese sauce to serve 5-6 people, you can easily freeze the leftovers for later, making meal prep a breeze.

Ingredients you will need-

• onions

• carrot

• garlic

• extra virgin olive oil

• 300g minced meat

• salt & black pepper

• whole peeled tomato cans

• bay leaf

• milk

• thyme

• oregano

Prep the Ingredients:

Begin by peeling and finely chopping the onions, garlic and carrot. For the onions, aim for a uniform dice to ensure even cooking. The carrot should be chopped finely to incorporate its sweetness into the sauce., you can add everything to a food processor and pulse for convenience. Crush the whole peeled tomatoes thoroughly, either by hand or using an immersion blender, for the sauce.

Saute the Aromatics:

Heat a generous splash of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and minced garlic to the pan. Stirring occasionally, sauté the vegetables until they soften and turn fragrant, which usually takes about 5 minutes. They should develop a golden hue but avoid letting them brown too much.

Cook the Minced Meat:

Add the minced meat to the center of the pan, spreading it out into a thin layer to ensure even cooking. Season the meat generously with salt and black pepper to enhance its flavour as it cooks. Use a spatula or spoon to break apart the meat, stirring occasionally, until it browns and cooks through completely. This typically takes around 5 minutes. Then add the crushed tomatoes.

Prepare the Sauce:

Add the bay leaf, thyme, and oregano to the pan, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed with additional salt and black pepper. Cover the pan with a lid to trap the flavours, allowing the sauce to simmer gently for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavours to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. If you have more time you can simmer the sauce for around an hour for a thick and rich sauce.

Cook the Spaghetti:

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti to the boiling water, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it reaches the desired level of doneness, typically around 10-12 minutes for al dente. Before draining the spaghetti, reserve about a cup of the pasta water. This starchy liquid will help to bind the sauce to the pasta later on.

Finish the Dish:

Once the Bolognese sauce has simmered and developed a rich flavour, remove the bay leaf from the pan. Stir in the milk, which adds a touch of creaminess to the sauce, and a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Add the cooked spaghetti directly to the pan with the sauce, tossing it gently until it is well coated. The residual heat will help the spaghetti absorb the flavours of the sauce. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the spaghetti and stir until it is melted and fully incorporated, adding richness to the dish.

Serve and Garnish:

Divide the Spaghetti Bolognese among serving plates or bowls, ensuring each portion has a generous amount of sauce and pasta. Tear fresh mozzarella over the top of each serving, allowing it to melt slightly from the heat of the pasta. Scatter torn basil leaves over the dish, adding a pop of fresh flavour and vibrant colour. Finish with a final drizzle of olive oil over each serving, which enhances the dish's richness and adds a subtle fruity note.

Enjoy!:

With your fork in hand, savour each mouthful of this comforting Spaghetti Bolognese, appreciating the harmonious blend of savoury sauce, tender pasta, and creamy cheese. Should you have any leftovers, don't hesitate to freeze the Bolognese sauce for future meals, ensuring that you always have a delicious homemade option on hand whenever cravings strike.

Other Easy Meal Ideas -

• Pea Pesto Orzo Pasta

• Easy Pizza Pasta Sauce

• Tortellini Soup

• Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese

I hope you like the recipe, and if you try it do not forget to share with me and tag me on my instagram (@krustandfrost).

Hi!! My name is Maleeha ,  your passionate host and fellow food enthusiast, and I'm thrilled to take you on a delectable journey through the world of baking, cooking, and dessert-making