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Authentic Italian Spaghetti Bolognese

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A rich and hearty Italian-inspired Spaghetti Bolognese made with slow-simmered ground beef, tender vegetables, tomatoes, milk, and perfectly cooked pasta. This comforting classic is packed with deep savory flavor and perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 1 medium carrot, finely diced
  • 1 celery stalk, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) red or white wine
  • 1 can (14 oz) whole tomatoes or 2 cups (500ml) passata
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 oz (350g) spaghetti or tagliatelle
  • Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano, for serving
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Finely dice the onion, carrot, and celery.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
  3. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened.
  4. Add the ground beef and cook while breaking it apart until browned evenly.
  5. Pour in the wine and simmer for about 5 minutes until mostly evaporated.
  6. Stir in the tomatoes or passata until fully combined.
  7. Add the milk, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
  8. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  9. About 15 minutes before the sauce is finished, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  10. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions.
  11. Drain the pasta and toss with the sauce or spoon the sauce over the pasta.
  12. Serve hot topped with freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano and chopped parsley or basil.

Notes

  • Slow simmering develops the richest flavor and texture.
  • Milk helps soften tomato acidity and creates a silky sauce.
  • Tagliatelle is the traditional pasta choice for Bolognese.
  • The sauce tastes even better the next day.
  • Add a splash of water or milk when reheating if the sauce thickens too much.
  • The sauce freezes very well for meal prep.
  • You can substitute beef broth for wine if preferred.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/authentic-italian-spaghetti-bolognese/