Craving a hearty Spaghetti Bolognese? Explore this easy recipe with ingredient substitutions for different regions and dietary needs. A perfect meal for all tastes!
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Delicious and Easy Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe 🍝
Looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s quick to make? Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic family favorite. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this dish is simple, delicious, and perfect for feeding a crowd. With hearty minced meat, a rich tomato-based sauce, and a perfect balance of herbs and spices, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients & Measurements 🥘
Here’s the ingredient list for this easy Spaghetti Bolognese, with measurements in both metric and imperial units.
| Ingredient | Quantity (Metric) | Quantity (Imperial) |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 2 tbsp |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 2 cloves |
| Ground beef | 500g | 1 lb |
| Carrot (diced) | 1 medium | 1 medium |
| Celery (diced) | 1 stalk | 1 stalk |
| Canned chopped tomatoes | 400g | 14 oz |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp | 2 tbsp |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
| Dried basil | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste | To taste |
| Red wine (optional) | 1/2 cup | 1/2 cup |
| Beef broth (or water) | 1/2 cup | 1/2 cup |
| Spaghetti | 200g | 7 oz |
Instructions 🍽️
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, stirring often, until browned. Break up any clumps of meat with your spoon.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Pour in the red wine (if using) and beef broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce, ensuring it is well-coated. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Ingredient Substitutes 🛒
For US/UK/Malaysian Readers (Halal)
- Ground Beef: You can use ground chicken, turkey, or lamb. For a vegetarian option, try lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP).
- Olive Oil: Any vegetable oil like canola or sunflower oil will work fine.
- Beef Broth: Use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water if you prefer a lighter flavor.
- Red Wine: Skip the red wine and use extra beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.
- Spaghetti: Whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta are great alternatives.
Other Substitutes/Suggestions:
- Tomato Paste: If you don’t have tomato paste, use tomato sauce with a teaspoon of tomato puree to thicken it up.
- Carrots: Zucchini or bell peppers can replace carrots for a different texture.
- Basil and Oregano: Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried ones, or experiment with thyme and rosemary for a twist!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings 🍽️
- Pair with a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette works beautifully to balance out the richness of the Bolognese sauce.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with some buttery garlic bread on the side to scoop up every last bit of sauce!
- Grated Cheese: A generous sprinkle of Parmesan or Pecorino cheese adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Wine Pairing: A nice red wine like a Chianti or Merlot pairs wonderfully with this dish. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon.
FAQs ❓
Can I make Bolognese sauce ahead of time? Yes! Bolognese sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat before serving.
Can I use other types of meat for Bolognese? Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or lamb can replace ground beef. You can even use a mix of meats to enhance the flavor.
Is Spaghetti Bolognese gluten-free? Traditional spaghetti is not gluten-free, but you can easily substitute gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a healthier option.
Can I add more vegetables to the Bolognese? Of course! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach would be great additions to the sauce. Just chop them finely and add them with the other vegetables.
Final Thoughts 🥳
Spaghetti Bolognese is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. It’s simple, flavorful, and adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some extra veggies! Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or getting creative with substitutions, this dish will surely hit the spot.
Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to share your photos and feedback!
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