Spaghetti Bolognese Recipes

 Spaghetti Bolognese Recipes 

Spaghetti Bolognese is one of those timeless comfort foods that warms the heart and fills the kitchen with rich, savory aromas. Its origins are Italian, but it's become a beloved favorite around the world. While the classic meat-based Bolognese is unbeatable in its depth and tradition, today’s kitchens offer exciting variations—from vegetarian renditions to slow-cooked indulgence. Here are three versions of Spaghetti Bolognese that bring bold flavor and satisfying texture to your table.

1. The Classic Spaghetti Bolognese

Serves: 4 | Prep time: 20 mins | Cook time: 1 hour

This traditional Bolognese sauce is all about layering flavors—onions, garlic, ground beef, tomatoes, and a hint of red wine—simmered low and slow until velvety and rich.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 celery stalk, finely chopped

1 carrot, grated or finely chopped

500g ground beef

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes

1/2 cup red wine (optional but flavorful)

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp salt, to taste

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 cup milk

Fresh basil and grated Parmesan to serve

400g spaghetti

Method:

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, celery, and carrot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until soft.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.

Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes. Add red wine and simmer for 5 minutes.

Pour in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in the milk and let it cook for another 10 minutes for extra richness.

Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and toss with sauce.

Top with basil and Parmesan.

Tips:

The milk balances acidity and softens the meat.

A splash of balsamic vinegar can enhance depth near the end of cooking.

2. Vegetarian Lentil Spaghetti Bolognese

Serves: 4 | Prep time: 20 mins | Cook time: 45 mins

This plant-powered version uses lentils and mushrooms to mimic the texture of meat while offering hearty, earthy flavors. It’s not only satisfying but also rich in fiber and protein.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 carrots, grated

2 celery stalks, chopped

1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp dried thyme

1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)

1 can (400g) lentils, drained

1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 cup vegetable broth

2 tsp soy sauce or tamari

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley and nutritional yeast or Parmesan to serve

400g whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti

Method:

Heat olive oil in a pan. Sauté onion, garlic, celery, and carrot for 5-7 minutes.

Add mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until soft.

Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, and chili flakes.

Add lentils, tomato paste, tomatoes, and broth. Simmer for 25-30 minutes.

Stir in soy sauce, adjust seasoning, and simmer for 5 more minutes.

Cook spaghetti according to package directions.

Serve pasta topped with the lentil Bolognese, parsley, and your choice of cheesy topping.

Tips:

Use green or brown lentils for the best texture.

A pinch of cinnamon adds warmth and balance.

3. Slow-Cooked Bolognese with Pork and Beef

Serves: 6 | Prep time: 20 mins | Cook time: 4-6 hours (slow cooker)

For deep, indulgent flavor, this version uses both ground pork and beef, slowly simmered with red wine, herbs, and tomato for a sauce that clings beautifully to pasta. A slow cooker makes it effortless and mouthwateringly tender.

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 carrot, finely chopped

500g ground beef

300g ground pork

2 tbsp tomato paste

1/2 cup red wine

1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes

1/2 cup beef broth

1 tsp dried rosemary

1 bay leaf

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1/2 cup milk or cream (added at end)

500g spaghetti or pappardelle

Grated Parmesan and parsley to finish

Method:

In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion, garlic, and carrot until soft.

Add ground beef and pork. Cook until browned, then transfer to a slow cooker.

Stir in tomato paste, wine, crushed tomatoes, broth, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours.

Stir in milk or cream 20 minutes before serving.

Cook pasta and serve topped with the rich sauce and grated Parmesan.

Tips:

You can add pancetta at the beginning for extra depth.

Make extra—the flavor gets even better the next day.

Choosing Your Pasta and Pairings

While spaghetti is the classic pairing, don’t be afraid to experiment with pappardelle, tagliatelle, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist. These sauces are versatile and pair beautifully with robust wines (like Chianti or Sangiovese), garlic bread, or a simple green salad.

Spaghetti Bolognese may be a simple dish in theory, but it’s packed with opportunity. Whether you’re simmering a pot of traditional beef Bolognese, digging into a lentil-based veggie version, or preparing a slow-cooked masterpiece with pork and wine, there’s a recipe here for every craving and every kitchen.

Make it yours. Add roasted red peppers, splash in some cream, or toss in garden-fresh herbs. Spaghetti Bolognese is more than a meal—it’s a canvas of comfort and creativity.

Helpful Reading 

Carrot Cake Recipes and Cornbread Recipes 

https://www.amazon.com/Carrot-Cake-Recipes-Cornbread-Breakfast-ebook/dp/B0DJFHM3QQ

Phyllo Dough Breakfast and Dessert Recipes and Meatloaf Recipes 

https://www.amazon.com/Phyllo-Dessert-Breakfast-Recipes-Meatloaf-ebook/dp/B0DMKZF4ZD/

Cubed Steak Recipes and Recipes for Sauces 

https://www.amazon.com/Cubed-Steak-Recipes-Sauces-Delicious-ebook/dp/B0DS55K36N/

Salmon Recipes and Potato Recipes 

https://www.amazon.com/Salmon-Recipes-Potato-Boxed-Family-ebook/dp/B0DBMLNDPJ/