Spaghetti Bolognese topped with rich meat sauce, Parmesan, and basil leaves

Flavour Quest Recipes

Hearty Spaghetti Bolognese

This hearty spaghetti Bolognese is a rich, slow-simmered meat sauce served over tender pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal. Made with simple ingredients and deep, savory flavor, it’s a classic dinner that works just as well for weeknights as it does for make-ahead meals.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 40

Total Time 50

Servings: 4

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

1 lb Ground beef 450g
2 tbsp Olive oil
12 oz Spaghetti Noodles 340g
2 Cloves garlic minced
1 Carrot diced
1 Celery stalk diced
1 can Crushed tomato 28 oz
2 tbsp Tomato paste
1/2 cup Beef broth
1 tsp Oregano dried
1 tsp basil dried
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
1/4 tsp Black pepper
1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes optional
1/2 tsp sugar to balance acidity
Medium onion chopped
1/2 tsp Salt

Method

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Base
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
Brown the Beef
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Build the Sauce
Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth.Add oregano, basil, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and sugar. Stir well.
Simmer
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and rich.
Combine
Toss the sauce with cooked spaghetti or serve it on top.
Garnish & Serve
Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

🔄 Variations

Use ground turkey or pork instead of beef.

Add a splash of red wine while simmering for deeper flavor.

Stir in milk or cream at the end for a softer, richer sauce.

Make it vegetarian with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Serve over spaghetti or tagliatelle, topped with freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.

❄️ Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

💡 Tips

Use half beef and half Italian sausage for a richer taste.
The sauce freezes perfectly — great for meal prep.
Letting the sauce simmer longer enhances the flavor even more.
Simmer the sauce low and slow for at least 30–45 minutes to let the flavors develop. The longer it cooks, the richer it becomes.

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I make Bolognese ahead of time?
A: Yes. It tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.

Q: Should I drain the fat from the meat?
A: Yes, if there’s excess fat, draining it keeps the sauce balanced.

Q: What pasta works best with Bolognese?
A: Wide noodles like tagliatelle or pappardelle hold the sauce best, but spaghetti works well too.

Want More Cozy Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this recipe, you’ll love my free Comfort Dinner Guide—packed with easy, satisfying weeknight meals.

🍝 Hearty Spaghetti Bolognese