Spaghetti Bolognaise
A hearty Italian-inspired spaghetti bolognaise with rich tomato flavors, seasoned beef, and a hint of Italian herbs, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, drain away fat, and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil and add the chopped onion and crushed garlic; cook until soft but not brown.
- Add the cooked beef to the pan and stir to heat through.
- Chop the canned tomatoes well and add them along with the tomato puree to the pan.
- Add Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and gravy mix; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour.
- If necessary, thicken the sauce with cornstarch mixed with a little water.
- Cook the spaghetti in boiling water for about 7 minutes, then drain and rinse with boiling water.
- Serve the sauce over the spaghetti and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want to enhance the sauce's depth, try incorporating a bay leaf or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti bolognaise with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of French bread, which complements the dish beautifully. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover spaghetti bolognaise in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Bolognaise contains roughly 301 calories, with 17g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 875mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the bolognaise sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat before serving, and the flavors will develop even further as it sits.
What type of pasta works best with this sauce?
While spaghetti is traditional, this bolognaise sauce is versatile and pairs well with other pasta types such as fettuccine, penne, or even cheese stuffed pasta shells for a heartier dish. Choose whichever you prefer based on your taste or dietary preferences.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms for a similar texture. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives available in stores. Adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavor of the vegetables used.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).