Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless Italian classic, loved for its rich, comforting flavors and hearty texture.

This recipe will guide you to create a perfectly creamy and thick meat sauce that’s ideal for cozy family dinners or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Ready to impress?

Ingredients You'll Need

Soffritto (The Holy Trinity of Flavor)

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 carrots, finely chopped

1 celery stalk, finely chopped

1 onion, finely chopped

Other Ingredients

6 cloves garlic, minced

1½ pounds ground meat (80/20)

1 (28-ounce/794g) can whole tomatoes, crushed

1 (6-ounce/170g) can tomato paste

1 bay leaf

1 cup whole milk, room temperature

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 pound spaghetti or tagliatelle pasta (450g)

½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (43g)

How to Make Spaghetti Bolognese

1. Prepare the Soffritto

Set a large pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Add the carrots, celery, and onion to the pan, cooking for about 7 minutes until tender. Stir occasionally. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Brown the Ground Meat

Add the ground meat to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5 minutes until browned.

3. Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Stir in the crushed whole tomatoes, tomato paste, and bay leaf. Reduce the heat to low and bring the mixture to a simmer. Partially cover and cook for 2 hours, stirring every 20 to 30 minutes to prevent sticking.

4. Finish with Milk

Remove the bay leaf and slowly stir in room-temperature milk. Once fully combined, season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.

5. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large bowl of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and toss the pasta with the sauce until well combined.

6. Serve and Garnish

Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Perfect Bolognese

Chop Vegetables Finely

A fine soffritto ensures the vegetables dissolve into the sauce, enhancing its richness. Use a food processor if needed but avoid over-processing.

Crush the Tomatoes

For a smoother sauce, crush whole canned tomatoes in a bowl before adding them to the pan.

Simmer Low and Slow

The secret to an authentic Bolognese lies in the slow cooking process. Give it 3 hours to fully develop the deep, meaty flavors.

Choose the Right Pasta

While spaghetti is a classic choice, tagliatelle or pappardelle are sturdier options that pair beautifully with the robust sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Freezing the Sauce

This sauce freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Leave some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave until heated through.

Pair your Spaghetti Bolognese with a crisp green salad and crunchy garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired dinner. Finish the meal with a simple dessert like fresh fruit or a scoop of gelato. Dear Lykkers, enjoy the ultimate comfort food at home!