Classic Italian Spaghetti Bolognese
A rich and savory meat sauce simmered to perfection, served over al dente spaghetti. This classic Italian dish is hearty and comforting, perfect for a family dinner.

Ingredients
- •1 tablespoon olive oil
- •1 large onion, finely chopped
- •2 carrots, finely chopped
- •2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- •2 cloves garlic, minced
- •1 pound ground beef
- •4 ounces pancetta, diced (optional)
- •1/2 cup dry red wine
- •1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- •1/2 cup beef broth
- •2 tablespoons tomato paste
- •1 teaspoon dried oregano
- •1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- •Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- •1 pound spaghetti
- •Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- •Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Dietary Info
Instructions
- 1
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery (soffritto) and cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 2
Add the ground beef and pancetta (if using) to the pot. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- 3
Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer until the wine has mostly evaporated, about 3-5 minutes.
- 4
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1.5 hours for a richer flavor, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
- 5
While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
- 6
Serve the Bolognese sauce over the hot spaghetti, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
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