Spaghetti Bolognese

I love making Spaghetti Bolognese when I want a comforting, classic meal that never disappoints. The rich tomato sauce simmered with savory meat and herbs fills my kitchen with warmth, and every bite feels hearty, familiar, and deeply satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s simple, timeless, and full of flavor. I enjoy how the sauce slowly develops richness as it cooks, making the dish taste even better the longer it simmers. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or anytime I crave true comfort food.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, finely diced
1 celery stalk, finely diced
1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
½ cup beef broth or water
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
12 ounces spaghetti

Directions

I start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. I add the onion, carrot, and celery and cook until soft and fragrant. I stir in the garlic and cook briefly.

Next, I add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. I stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a minute to deepen the flavor.

I add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. I reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and rich.

While the sauce simmers, I cook the spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. I drain the pasta and toss it with the sauce before serving.

Servings And Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add a splash of milk or cream to soften the acidity of the tomatoes. When I want extra depth, I include a pinch of nutmeg or a bay leaf while simmering. I also enjoy using ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

I often make it a day ahead because the flavors deepen as it rests.

What pasta works best with Bolognese?

I usually use spaghetti, but I also like tagliatelle or fettuccine.

Can I freeze the sauce?

I freeze the sauce without pasta for up to 3 months and thaw it before reheating.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

I let it simmer uncovered a little longer until it reaches the consistency I like.

Can I add vegetables?

I sometimes add mushrooms or zucchini for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

I keep coming back to Spaghetti Bolognese because it’s comforting, reliable, and full of rich flavor. It’s one of those recipes that always feels like home, no matter how many times I make it.

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