Homemade Authentic Italian Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

Italian Spaghetti Bolognese is one of the most beloved and iconic dishes from Italy. Hailing from the Emilia-Romagna region, specifically the city of Bologna, this rich, slow-cooked meat sauce is a staple in Italian cuisine.

This recipe offers a traditional approach, featuring a combination of ground beef and pork, sautéed vegetables, red wine, and a simmering tomato sauce. The result is a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings. 

In this article, we will explore the classic Spaghetti Bolognese, offer tips for perfecting the recipe, and provide a step-by-step guide to creating an authentic version of this Italian favorite. Whether you’re seasoned or new to Italian cuisine, this authentic Spaghetti  Bolognese recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Yields: 4-6 servings 

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1.5-2 hours

Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

For the Pasta

• 1 pound Spaghetti Pasta
• Parmesan cheese freshly grated, for serving

Instructions

Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat a drizzle of olive oil. Add the ground beef and pork and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove the meat to a separate plate and drain any excess fat.

Saute the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, and saute the onion, carrot, and celery until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Deglaze the Pan

Pour the red wine into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer and cook until the alcohol has evaporated.

Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Mix in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth, then bring to a gentle simmer and lower the heat.

Simmer the Sauce

Cover and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded. Stir in the milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the pasta. 

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta with the Bolognese sauce. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a tablespoon of butter to the sauce at the end.
• If you don’t have red wine, you can substitute it with beef broth.
• For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper.
• Bolognese sauce is all about slow cooking. Rushing the process won’t develop the depth of flavor that makes this dish so special.
• Although spaghetti is popular in many places, tagliatelle is the traditional choice. The wide, flat noodles hold the sauce better. Rigatoni or pappardelle also work well.

Variations

While the classic recipe is always a winner, you can experiment with variations to suit your preferences:

• Vegetarian Bolognese: Substitute the meat with a mix of finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, or even plant-based ground meat alternatives.
• Spicy Bolognese: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped chili to the soffritto for some heat.
• Extra Creamy Bolognese: Stir in a splash of cream at the end of cooking for an ultra-rich version of the sauce.

Conclusion

This authentic Italian Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cuisine. While it requires patience and time to prepare, the result is well worth the effort. The combination of savory flavors, tender meat, and Spaghetti creates a truly satisfying dish. By following these steps, you can enjoy the comfort and warmth of a homemade Bolognese meal right in your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing it with your family or friends, this recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.  

Enjoy your homemade Italian Spaghetti Bolognese!