Ingredients

Sauce Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1.3 pounds ground beef (fat-free)
2 medium onions
2 medium carrots
2-3 cloves garlic
1 celery stalk
1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 can (14 ounces) water (or beef broth)
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Oregano to taste
Basil to taste

Pasta Ingredients

1 package (16 ounces) spaghetti

Instructions

Step 1

Preparation of the Bolognese Sauce

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Carefully add the chopped onions and sauté them until they become translucent and soft.

Next, stir in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned, ensuring it is evenly cooked on all sides.

Once the meat is cooked, add the chopped carrots, minced garlic, and chopped celery. Cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables soften.

Finally, pour in the crushed tomatoes and the water or beef broth. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let the sauce simmer for about 2 to 2.5 hours for the best flavor development.

Step 2

Cooking the Spaghetti

While the sauce is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

After the spaghetti is cooked, drain it well and return it to the pot. You may want to toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3

Serving

Once the sauce has finished simmering, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the Bolognese sauce over the spaghetti for a delightful meal.

If desired, the sauce can also be used as a filling for lasagna or a topping for pizza.

Enjoy your delicious Bolognese pasta, and don't hesitate to reach out in the comments if you have any questions! ❤️

Servings

When it comes to enjoying your Bolognese sauce, the possibilities are endless! **Serve it over a generous portion of spaghetti** for the traditional experience, and don't forget to sprinkle some *freshly grated Parmesan cheese* on top for that extra burst of flavor! 🍝✨

For a more adventurous take, try using this sauce as *a hearty filling for lasagna*. Layer it between sheets of pasta, béchamel, and cheese for a delightful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. And for pizza lovers, why not spread the sauce on your dough before adding toppings? It will elevate your homemade pizzas to a whole new level! 🍕💕

Don't forget to pair your meal with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!

Equipment

Variations

Looking for alternatives? No problem! Here are some **gluten-free** and **vegan variations**: 🍅🌱

For a **gluten-free** version, simply replace the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa. This way, you can still enjoy those delightful textures without compromising on taste. 🥢 And if you want to skip the meat, opt for a **vegan variation** by substituting the beef with lentils or mushrooms. You can also use soy sauce or tamari for an extra umami kick! Your sauce will still be rich, sticky, and full of flavor. 📦💚

Remember to double-check your sauces and broth are also gluten and animal product-free!

Faq

  • What if my sauce is too thick?

    If your sauce is too thick, simply add a little water or beef broth while it's simmering. Stir until you reach the desired consistency!

  • Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

    Canned tomatoes work wonderfully! They add great flavor and save you prep time. Just make sure to pick a good quality brand!

  • How do I store leftover sauce?

    Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer shelf life!

  • Can I make this sauce in advance?

    Absolutely! Making the sauce a day before lets the flavors deepen even more. Just reheat gently before serving.

  • How can I make my sauce spicier?

    Add crushed red pepper flakes while cooking, or stir in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick! Adjust according to your taste.

  • What are good side dishes to serve with Bolognese?

    Light side dishes like a green salad or steamed vegetables complement the richness of Bolognese. Garlic bread is also a favorite for soaking up the sauce!

Nutrition facts

Delicious Bolognese Sauce for Pasta Lovers
Recipe Yield:6 servings
Calories:Approximately 600 to 800 calories per serving, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Calories (Min - Max):600 - 800
Total Fat:35g
Saturated Fat:5g
Protein:40g
Total Carbohydrate:60g
Total Sugars:7g