Print

Spaghetti Bolognese with Beef

Print Recipe

This Easy Spaghetti Bolognese with Beef recipe combines a rich, hearty meat sauce with perfectly cooked spaghetti for a comforting, flavorful Italian-inspired dinner. Ready in under 45 minutes using simple pantry staples, it’s perfect for family meals or weeknight dinners, with versatile options to customize to your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) Ground Beef
  • 1 Onion, finely diced
  • 2 Garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 Carrot, finely diced
  • 1 Celery stalk, finely diced
  • 1 (14 oz/400 g) can Canned Tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
  • 1 cup (240 ml) Beef Broth
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp Dried Basil
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black Pepper, to taste
  • 12 oz (340 g) Spaghetti

Optional Variations and Garnishes

  • Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini (for vegetable boost)
  • Chili flakes or chopped fresh chili (for a spicy twist)
  • Ground turkey or lentils (for a leaner or vegetarian option)
  • Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese (for richness and topping)
  • Red wine (a splash added during cooking for depth)
  • Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
  • Extra olive oil (for finishing drizzle)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Dice the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery finely to create a smooth and flavorful base for the sauce.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, cooking gently until softened and fragrant to unlock their natural sweetness.
  3. Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it into small pieces. Cook thoroughly until browned and no longer pink, forming the hearty backbone of the sauce.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in tomato paste, canned tomatoes, beef broth, dried basil, and oregano. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking thickens the sauce and deepens the flavors.
  6. Cook the Spaghetti: Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  7. Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce to coat every strand generously. Serve immediately, garnished with grated cheese, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic, herbs, and quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor.
  • Don’t rush the simmering step; slow cooking intensifies the taste.
  • Break up the beef well during cooking for even texture.
  • Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed for a silky finish.
  • Season gradually and taste throughout cooking to balance flavors.
  • Add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic to smooth the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti bolognese, beef bolognese, easy spaghetti recipe, Italian pasta, beef pasta sauce, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/spaghetti-bolognese-with-beef/