Name: Irresistibly Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Adds richness to the sauce; can substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option.); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced; provides essential aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended for best results.); 1 Onion (Medium, finely chopped; creates the aromatic base of the sauce; yellow or sweet onions work best.); 1 lb Beef Mince; 1/2 cup Dry Red Wine (Enhances the sauce's depth; omit for non-alcoholic version or use vegetable broth instead.); 2 Beef Bouillon Cubes (Adds umami flavor to the sauce; substitute with vegetable bouillon for vegetarian recipes.); 800 g Crushed Tomato (Main component of the sauce; provides acidity and richness; fresh tomatoes can be used if in season.); 2 tbsp Tomato Paste (Intensifies tomato flavor; sun-dried tomato paste can add extra depth.); 2 tsp White Sugar (Balances acidity in the sauce; optional honey or maple syrup offers a natural sweetener.); 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce (Adds a savory, umami-rich depth; soy sauce is a vegan-friendly option.); 2 Dried Bay Leaves (Infuses the sauce with subtle aromatic notes.); 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme (Enhances overall flavor; substitute with dried thyme if fresh is unavailable.); 3/4 tsp Cooking Salt (Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to taste and dietary needs.); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Provides mild heat; freshly ground pepper is preferred.); 400 g Dried Spaghetti (The ideal pasta choice for this dish; gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute.); Parmesan Cheese (Optional; elevates the dish with cheesy richness.); Finely Chopped Parsley (Optional; adds fresh color.)

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As the sun sets and the kitchen fills with the warm, inviting scent of garlic and herbs, I can’t help but feel grateful for classic comfort food like Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese. This dish is my go-to for cozy gatherings and busy weeknights alike—its rich, hearty sauce clings lovingly to each strand of spaghetti, promising both satisfaction and nostalgia.

After a long day, there’s nothing more delightful than watching the ingredients transform into a delicious, savory masterpiece. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in the endless variations; whether you’re a meat lover craving beefy goodness, or a vegetarian seeking a delightful alternative with lentils or mushrooms, this dish caters to all tastes.

Join me as we dive into this culinary adventure where family traditions meet modern flavors, making every bite a celebration of comfort and love.

Why You’ll Love Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese

Simplicity at its finest: This recipe allows you to create a gourmet dish effortlessly, using accessible ingredients from your pantry.
Rich and Hearty Flavor: With savory beef, aromatic garlic, and a touch of red wine, each bite is a flavor explosion that warms the soul.
Versatile Options: Want a vegetarian twist? Substitute lentils or mushrooms for a satisfying alternative that pleases all palates.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish always impresses guests and keeps them coming back for more!
Quick Meal Solution: With a straightforward process, you can whip this up on busy weeknights or spend a cozy evening immersing yourself in the cooking experience.
Perfect Pairings: Elevate your meal by serving it with fresh garlic bread or a crisp salad, just like with these delicious Homemade Baked Maple options for sides!

Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese Ingredients

• Discover the delightful components of this classic dish!

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Adds richness to the sauce; can substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Provides essential aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended for the best results.
Onion (1 medium, finely chopped) – Creates the aromatic base of the sauce; yellow or sweet onions work best.
Beef Mince (1 lb / 500g) – The main protein source providing a hearty texture; use ground turkey for a leaner option or plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
Dry Red Wine (1/2 cup / 125 ml) – Enhances the sauce’s depth; omit for a non-alcoholic version or use vegetable broth instead.
Beef Bouillon Cubes (2) – Adds umami flavor to the sauce; substitute with vegetable bouillon for vegetarian recipes.
Crushed Tomato (800g / 28 oz can) – Main component of the sauce providing acidity and richness; fresh tomatoes can be used if in season.
Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Intensifies the tomato flavor; sun-dried tomato paste can add extra depth.
White Sugar (2 tsp) – Balances acidity in the sauce; optional honey or maple syrup offers a natural sweetener.
Worcestershire Sauce (2 tsp) – Adds a savory, umami-rich depth; soy sauce is a vegan-friendly option.
Dried Bay Leaves (2) – Infuses the sauce with subtle aromatic notes.
Fresh Thyme (2 sprigs) – Enhances the overall flavor; substitute with dried thyme if fresh is unavailable.
Cooking Salt (3/4 tsp) – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to taste and dietary needs.
Black Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Provides mild heat; freshly ground pepper is preferred.

For the Pasta

Dried Spaghetti (400g / 13 oz) – The ideal pasta choice for this dish; gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute.

For Serving

Parmesan Cheese & Finely Chopped Parsley (optional) – Elevates the dish with cheesy richness and fresh color.

Embrace these ingredients to create your Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Make Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese

Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking until golden and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to high, add 1 lb of beef mince, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5 minutes.
Add Wine: Pour in 1/2 cup of dry red wine, allowing it to simmer for 1 minute. This helps deglaze the pan, lifting any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in 800g of crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 beef bouillon cubes, 2 teaspoons of white sugar, 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce, 2 dried bay leaves, 2 sprigs of fresh thyme, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce the heat, and cook for 20 to 30 minutes. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water.
Slow Simmer for Enhanced Flavor (optional): For even richer flavor, add 3/4 cup of water, cover, and simmer on very low heat for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally. Remove the lid for the last 20 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Prepare Pasta: Cook 400g of dried spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package instructions, minus 1 minute. Reserve some pasta water before draining. Toss the spaghetti with the sauce, using reserved water to combine if needed.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley for a delightful finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese is ideal for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the Bolognese sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the cooking instructions until the sauce has simmered, then let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for freshness. To maintain quality, be sure to reheat the sauce slowly on the stove, adding a splash of water if it thickens. When you’re ready to enjoy, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions and combine it with the reheated sauce for a delicious meal that tastes just as good as when first made.

Expert Tips for Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese

Slow Cooking: Allow your sauce to simmer longer to develop deeper flavors. Patience is key for the best Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese!
Perfect Browning: Don’t rush the process of browning the meat; it enhances the overall flavor. Take your time for a luscious result.
Vegetarian Substitutes: Experiment with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option that mirrors the texture of beef.
Adjusting Salt: Start with less salt and taste as you go, ensuring a perfectly seasoned sauce without overpowering flavors.
Pasta Perfection: Remember to cook spaghetti until al dente; this gives it the perfect bite that holds up against the rich sauce.

What to Serve with Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese?

As you savor the deep, rich flavors of your pasta dish, it’s the perfect time to think about delightful companions that enhance your meal experience.

Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the warmth of crispy, buttery garlic bread, perfect for mopping up that luscious sauce. This classic side takes your meal from great to unforgettable.
Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds a crunchy contrast to the soft spaghetti. The creamy dressing and crisp romaine bring balance and brightness to your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots provides a colorful and healthy complement. Their natural sweetness beautifully contrasts the savory sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top not only elevates the flavors but also adds a delightful creaminess that ties the entire dish together.
Red Wine: A glass of bold red wine, like Chianti, pairs perfectly with the rich sauce. The wine’s acidity helps to cut through the fat of the beef, enhancing the overall taste.
Herbed Focaccia: Soft and fluffy herbed focaccia is a wonderful bread option to serve. Its comforting texture and flavor make a delightful accompaniment for both the spaghetti and any leftover sauce.
Tiramisu: For a sweet finish, consider serving homemade tiramisu. Its coffee-infused layers of cream contrast beautifully with the savory depth of the main dish, offering a delightful end to your meal.
Lemon Sorbet: Refreshing lemon sorbet can cleanse the palate and provide a light counterpoint to the hearty Bolognese. It’s a zesty way to round out your dining experience.

Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese Variations

Explore delightful twists to make this comforting dish uniquely yours, igniting your culinary creativity!

Vegetarian Swap: Replace beef with lentils or mushrooms for a wholesome plant-based option that still satisfies.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to ensure everyone at the table can join the feast without worries.
Turkey Option: For a lighter touch, swap beef for ground turkey, creating a deliciously lean yet hearty dish.
Extra Veggies: Boost nutrition by adding finely chopped bell peppers or grated carrots to the sauce during cooking.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano or basil for a fragrant aroma, taking the flavor to another level.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a delightful heat that elevates each bite.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese before serving for a luxurious, creamy finish.
Cheesy Delight: Top with a generous helping of mozzarella before baking for an oven-baked variation that’s irresistibly cheesy!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese

Fridge: Store your sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for quick reheating on busy nights!

Freezer: Freeze the sauce in portions for up to 3 months. Just defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating for your Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to restore consistency. Stir frequently for even warming.

Pasta Storage: Cooked spaghetti can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it’s best tossed with the sauce right before serving to maintain its texture.

Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe FAQs

What type of beef should I use for the best flavor?
I recommend using a good quality ground beef, ideally an 80/20 blend for flavorful fat that creates a luscious sauce. However, leaner options like ground turkey or even plant-based meats work well for a healthier, lighter version without sacrificing taste.

How should I store leftovers properly?
Store your Easy Homemade Ultimate Spaghetti Bolognese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months. It’s a great meal prep solution for busy evenings!

Can I freeze the sauce? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Bolognese sauce, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Be sure to label them with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.

What if my sauce is too thick? What can I do?
If your sauce turns out too thick, don’t worry! Just stir in a small amount of water, broth, or even a splash of red wine while reheating. This will help restore its rich consistency. Make sure to add a little at a time until it reaches your desired thickness.

Are there vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?
Certainly! Instead of beef mince, you can use cooked lentils or diced mushrooms as the base of your sauce. Follow the same cooking method as with meat, and the sauce will be just as satisfying and flavorful. It’s an excellent way to cater to vegetarian dietary needs while maintaining those comforting flavors!

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned in this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes when they’re in season! Just be aware that you’ll need about 2 to 3 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes to replace the 800g can of crushed tomatoes. You may also want to adjust the cooking time to allow for their moisture content, simmering a bit longer to achieve that thick, hearty consistency.