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pasta bolognese

Pasta Bolognese is a classic Italian dish made with a rich meat sauce and served over pasta. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners and serves well with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 People
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 large skillet or saucepan
  • 1 wooden spoon or spatula
  • 1 colander
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 400 g spaghetti or tagliatelle pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, finely chopped (about 100g)
  • 1 stalk celery, finely chopped (about 50g)
  • 500 g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (400g)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 150 ml red wine (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta in a colander.
  • While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become softened.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, approximately 8-10 minutes.
  • Pour in the red wine (if using) and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
  • Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add some reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
  • Once the sauce is ready, combine it with the drained pasta in the pot. Toss well to coat the spaghetti or tagliatelle with the Bolognese sauce.
  • Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

You can add chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
This dish can be made ahead of time, as the flavors deepen when reheated.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.