Spaghetti Bolognese

Story behind the dish

There’s something truly comforting about a hug in a bowl, and spaghetti Bolognese is just that—a warm, hearty classic that brings families together around the dinner table. With its rich tomato sauce mingling with savory beef and mushrooms, this dish is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients turned into something extraordinary. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe offers a comforting embrace in every bite.

Ingredients

• 2 onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 pound (16 oz) lean minced beef
• 3 ounces (90 g) mushrooms, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 14-ounce (400 g) can tomatoes
• 10 ounces (300 ml) hot beef stock
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste or tomato purée
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 12 ounces (350 g) spaghetti
• Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)

Step-by-step

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over fairly high heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and slightly golden.
2. Add the minced garlic and lean ground beef to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned all over.
3. Throw in the sliced mushrooms and dried oregano. Cook for another 2 minutes until the mushrooms start to soften.
4. Stir in the canned tomatoes, hot beef stock, tomato paste (or purée), and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling, salted water according to the package instructions. Drain well, then rinse with hot water to keep it from sticking.
7. Toss a dash of olive oil through the drained pasta, if you'd like, then mix in the meat sauce until evenly coated.
8. Serve hot in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese for that final, irresistible touch.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of red wine to the sauce during simmering.
• Pair your spaghetti Bolognese with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Closing thoughts

This spaghetti Bolognese isn’t just a dish; it’s an invitation to slow down, savor, and enjoy the comforting flavors of a well-loved recipe. Warm, hearty, and endlessly customizable, it’s the kind of meal that makes every dinner feel like a special occasion. Buon appetito!