Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

If you have ever wanted to master a dish that feels like a warm hug from Italy, the Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe is exactly what you need. This timeless favorite combines rich, slow-simmered meat sauce with tender spaghetti for a meal that comforts and delights with every bite. The perfect blend of aromatic vegetables, savory beef, a splash of red wine, and creamy milk creates a sauce so luscious and flavorful, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe captures the essence of traditional Italian cooking in the most satisfying way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the first step to making your Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe unforgettable. Each item works harmoniously to build layers of flavor, texture, and color, making the final dish both beautiful and delicious.

• 400 g dried spaghetti: The perfect base, giving you that classic al dente bite.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Adds a fruity richness to sauté the vegetables gently.
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional): Creates extra depth and smoothness in your sauce.
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced: Provides sweetness and a tender bite as the base flavor.
• 2 medium carrots, finely diced: Adds natural sweetness and a subtle crunch.
• 2 celery ribs, finely diced: Offers a gentle herbal fragrance to balance the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings bright aromatic notes to awaken the sauce.
• 500 g round beef (80–90% lean): Gives hearty meaty richness without too much fat.
• 100 g pancetta or streaky bacon, finely chopped (optional): Injects smoky depth and traditional flair.
• 120 ml (1/2 cup) dry red wine: Adds complexity and acidity that enhances every flavor.
• 800 g canned crushed tomatoes or tomato passata: The vibrant tomato heart of the sauce.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 250 ml (1 cup) beef stock or water: Keeps the sauce luscious and moist during simmering.
• 150 ml (2/3 cup) whole milk or half-and-half: Softens acidity and adds creamy silkiness.
• 1 bay leaf: Infuses subtle earthy aroma throughout the cooking.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: Sprinkles Mediterranean warmth into the sauce.
• 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning: Boosts herbal brightness in every bite.
• 1/2 tsp sugar (optional): Helps balance the tomato’s natural acidity perfectly.
• Salt, to taste: Essential to elevate all flavors in the sauce and pasta.
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a fragrant kick with every mouthful.
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional): Offers gentle heat to awaken the senses.
• Fresh basil or flat-leaf parsley, chopped, for serving: Bright, fresh herbs to finish the dish beautifully.
• 60–80 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving: Creamy, salty topping to crown your masterpiece.

How to Make Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by finely dicing the onion, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces. This creates the classic soffritto base, which softens and melds beautifully into the sauce, imparting sweetness and texture. Mince the garlic and chop the pancetta or bacon if you decided to include it, preparing all your components for a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Soffritto

Heat the olive oil and optional butter in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery along with a pinch of salt to draw out moisture. Cook gently for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and have turned a lovely light golden shade, but not browned. This slow cooking unlocks the natural sugars, forming a delicious flavor foundation. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Pancetta and Beef

Add the finely chopped pancetta or bacon, if using, allowing it to render its fat and brown slightly for 3 to 4 minutes. Then crank up the heat to medium-high and add your ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the meat for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until it’s fully browned with a few caramelized bits on the bottom of the pot—those bits are packed with flavor and will enrich your sauce tremendously.

Step 4: Deglaze with Red Wine

Pour in the red wine, scraping the pan’s bottom to loosen all those tasty browned bits. Let the wine simmer and reduce for 2 to 3 minutes so the alcohol evaporates but leaves behind a lush depth that will elevate your sauce to restaurant-quality.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes to slightly caramelize and deepen its flavors. Then add the crushed tomatoes or passata, beef stock or water, and your bay leaf, oregano, thyme or Italian seasoning, optional sugar, and red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, stirring to combine now and then.

Step 6: Slow Simmer the Sauce

Lower the heat to keep a barely bubbling simmer and partially cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar. Let the sauce cook slowly for at least 45 to 60 minutes, stirring every 10 to 15 minutes to prevent sticking. For an even richer and more complex flavor, extend cooking up to 2 hours, adding a splash of water or stock if the sauce thickens too much. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper during the final minutes for perfect seasoning.

Step 7: Stir in the Milk

About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the milk or half-and-half. This step is crucial to mellow the acidity of the tomatoes and add a luscious, silky texture. Let it simmer gently uncovered until the sauce thickens slightly again, then remove the bay leaf and give the seasoning a final check.

Step 8: Cook the Spaghetti

While the sauce finishes, bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, firm to the bite but cooked through. Reserve about one cup of the starchy pasta water before draining to help marry the sauce and noodles seamlessly.

Step 9: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Return the drained spaghetti to the pot or a large bowl. Add a generous few ladles of your glorious Bolognese sauce and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together gently over low heat or thoroughly in the bowl until the noodles are coated in a glossy, mouthwatering sauce that clings beautifully to every strand.

Step 10: Serve

Plate your sauced spaghetti in warmed bowls, spooning extra sauce on top for that irresistible look. Shower each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan and sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting magic of your homemade Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe.

How to Serve Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped basil or flat-leaf parsley give your dish inviting color and a fresh burst of flavor, perfectly balancing the rich sauce. A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese not only adds saltiness but also melts beautifully into the warm sauce, elevating every bite. For a subtle hint of heat, a light dusting of red pepper flakes is a lovely touch.

Side Dishes

This classic Italian meal pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut the richness, or crusty garlic bread for soaking up every last drop of sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or a medley of grilled zucchini and peppers also complement the robust flavors of the Bolognese.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant twist, serve your Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe in individual shallow bowls topped with a delicate Parmesan crisp or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. You can also twirl the spaghetti with a fork into neat nests before ladling sauce over for a restaurant-style presentation. Feeling adventurous? Try layering the rich Bolognese in a baked pasta dish, topped with mozzarella and baked until bubbly and golden.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Bolognese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the cooked spaghetti separately to prevent sogginess. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat the sauce and toss with freshly cooked or reheated pasta for the best texture.

Freezing

The sauce freezes beautifully, making it perfect for easy meals down the road. Let it cool fully before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or stock if it’s too thick.

Reheating

Reheat your Bolognese sauce slowly over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. To loosen the sauce if needed, add a splash of milk, broth, or reserved pasta water. If reheating pasta with sauce combined, warm gently to keep the noodles tender but not mushy.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version. Just be mindful that the flavor will be milder, so consider adding extra herbs or seasoning to keep it flavorful.

Is it necessary to use red wine?

Red wine adds wonderful depth to the sauce, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with extra beef stock or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity and complexity.

Why do we add milk to Bolognese sauce?

Milk softens the acidity from the tomatoes and gives the sauce a creamy, smooth texture that sets classic Bolognese apart from other meat sauces. It creates a beautifully balanced richness.

Can I make the sauce in a slow cooker?

Yes, transferring your sauce to a slow cooker after browning the meat and aromatics is a great option. Simmer it on low for 4 to 6 hours for deeply developed flavors with minimal effort.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of water, milk, or broth to loosen the sauce and keep it silky and moist. Avoid microwaving on high heat which can toughen the meat.

Final Thoughts

Embracing the joy of making your own Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe brings a wonderful sense of accomplishment and comfort right to your dinner table. With rich flavors, a silky texture, and lots of love stirred in, this dish is sure to become a treasured staple in your cooking repertoire. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and dive into creating this delicious tradition that warms hearts and fills homes with the irresistible aroma of Italy.

Print