How to Make the Perfect Spaghetti Bolognese with Parmesan?

Spaghetti Bolognese is a beloved Italian classic that combines a rich, slow-cooked meat sauce with perfectly cooked pasta for a truly comforting meal. This hearty dish features ground beef simmered with aromatic herbs, garlic, onions, and a savory tomato sauce that melds all the flavors beautifully. Topped generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Spaghetti Bolognese becomes an irresistible meal that is both satisfying and simple to prepare at home. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish promises authentic Italian flavors that everyone will love.

The Secret to a Rich and Flavorful Bolognese Sauce

A great Spaghetti Bolognese starts with time and the right ingredients. Slow simmering is key — letting the sauce cook gently over low heat allows the flavors to deepen and develop a rich, hearty taste. Using fresh tomatoes or high-quality canned tomatoes creates a tangy yet naturally sweet base that perfectly complements the meat.

Adding a splash of red wine, along with classic herbs like oregano and basil, gives the sauce a complex, savory depth. Onions, garlic, and finely diced carrots provide a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes and rounds out the flavor.

The Perfect Combination of Pasta and Sauce

While traditional Spaghetti Bolognese uses spaghetti noodles, you can also try tagliatelle or fettuccine for a slightly different texture and mouthfeel. Cooking the pasta al dente is crucial to ensure it holds up well against the thick, rich sauce. Don’t forget to finish your dish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which adds a creamy, nutty flavor that elevates the entire meal.

Ingredients for Spaghetti Bolognese

• 400g spaghetti — the perfect pasta base for this classic dish
• 300g ground beef — rich and hearty protein to create the sauce
• 1 onion, finely chopped — for sweetness and depth
• 2 garlic cloves, minced — adding aromatic flavor
• 1 carrot, finely diced — balances acidity with natural sweetness
• 400g canned crushed tomatoes — forms the tangy, rich tomato base
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste — intensifies the tomato flavor
• 100ml red wine (optional) — adds complexity and richness
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano — classic Italian herb
• 1 teaspoon dried basil — adds aromatic freshness
• 2 tablespoons olive oil — for sautéing and flavor
• Salt and black pepper to taste — essential seasoning
• 50g Parmesan cheese, grated — to finish the dish with a nutty, creamy topping
• Fresh parsley for garnish — adds color and fresh aroma

Preparation

1. Cook the Vegetables
   Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and carrot, and sauté until softened and fragrant.
2. Brown the Meat
   Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.
3. Enhance the Flavor
   Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to intensify the flavor.
4. Simmer the Sauce
   Pour in the crushed tomatoes and red wine (if using). Add the oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper, and mix well. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop a rich, deep flavor.
5. Cook the Spaghetti
   While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce, ensuring the pasta is well-coated.
7. Serve and Garnish
   Serve the spaghetti hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether it’s a family lunch or a weekend meal, this recipe guarantees a rich, flavorful sauce paired with perfectly cooked pasta. For more hearty and delicious ideas, explore our lunch category filled with recipes to suit every occasion.

To learn more about the origins and variations of this classic Italian dish, check out this authentic Bolognese guide by Italian Food Forever.

Try it at home for an authentic taste of Italian cuisine!