Name: Spaghetti Bolognese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves (minced); 1 onion (finely chopped); 1 lb / 500g beef mince (ground beef); 1/2 cup (125 ml) dry apple vinegar (or beef broth/stock); 2 beef bouillon cubes (crumbled OR granulated); 800g / 28 oz can crushed tomato (or tomato passata); 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tsp white sugar (if needed); 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 dried bay leaves; 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano); 3/4 tsp cooking salt (kosher salt); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 400 g / 13 oz spaghetti (dried)

Description

Indulge in a comforting bowl of Spaghetti Bolognese, a classic dish that brings together rich flavors and hearty ingredients for an unforgettable meal. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this easy recipe features savory ground beef simmered with tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and spices. With a preparation time of just 40 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious homemade pasta dish that pleases both kids and adults alike. Customize it to your liking by adding vegetables or opting for different meats. Whether served over spaghetti or used as a filling for lasagna, this versatile recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 onion (finely chopped)
1 lb / 500g beef mince (ground beef)
1/2 cup (125 ml) dry apple vinegar (or beef broth/stock)
2 beef bouillon cubes (crumbled OR granulated)
800g / 28 oz can crushed tomato (or tomato passata)
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp white sugar (if needed)
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 dried bay leaves
2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano)
3/4 tsp cooking salt (kosher salt)
1/2 tsp black pepper
400 g / 13 oz spaghetti (dried)

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Cook for about 3 minutes until they are light golden and softened.
Increase the heat to high and add the beef mince. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks until browned evenly.
Pour in the apple vinegar. Bring it to a simmer for about one minute. Scrape the bottom of the pot to remove any stuck bits until the alcohol smell dissipates.
Add all remaining ingredients into the pot. Stir everything together, bring it to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium. Let it bubble gently for about 20-30 minutes without a lid, stirring occasionally. Add water if you prefer a thinner sauce.
For richer flavor, cover with a lid after adding 3/4 cup of water and let it simmer on very low heat for 2 to 2.5 hours. Stir every half hour. Remove the lid towards the end to thicken if necessary.
Taste your sauce and adjust salt if needed. Serve over spaghetti.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
Calories: 480
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, add chopped vegetables like carrots or bell peppers while sautéing the onions. Adjust seasoning according to your taste; consider adding grated cheese before serving.