Name: Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 onion, finely chopped (brown, yellow or white); 1 lb / 500g beef mince (ground beef) or half pork, half beef; 1/2 cup (125 ml) dry red wine (or substitute water or beef broth/stock); 2 beef bouillon cubes, crumbled or granulated beef bouillon; 800g / 28 oz can crushed tomato or tomato passata; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tsp white sugar (if needed); 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 dried bay leaves; 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano; 3/4 tsp cooking salt (kosher salt); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 400 g / 13 oz dried spaghetti; Parmesan cheese, grated (optional); Finely chopped parsley (optional)

I absolutely adore making and sharing my Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe because it perfectly balances rich, comforting flavors with a straightforward cooking process. This dish brings together tender ground beef, fragrant herbs, and a luscious tomato sauce, all tossed with spaghetti for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends, this recipe always earns a starring spot in my kitchen repertoire.

Why You'll Love This Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

What makes this Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe so special to me is its remarkable depth of flavor. The combination of browned beef and slowly simmered tomatoes, enhanced with a splash of red wine and aromatic herbs like thyme and bay leaves, turns a simple pasta dish into something truly memorable. The subtle touch of Worcestershire sauce and a hint of sweetness from the sugar perfectly balances the savory notes, creating a sauce that’s rich without being overwhelming.

I also love how manageable the prep and cooking are. With relatively few ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your pantry, I find this recipe incredibly approachable. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but doesn’t demand hours of work or complicated steps – a real winner for busy weekdays or last-minute dinners. And if you want to take the flavor to the next level, a slow simmer option makes all the difference, tenderizing the meat beautifully and thickening the sauce to perfection.

Plus, it’s endlessly versatile. It’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, yet still cozy enough for quiet nights in. Whether serving it with a simple green salad or a more formal spread, this recipe delivers comfort and confidence. It always feels like a special treat when I bring Spaghetti Bolognese to the table!

Ingredients You'll Need

A close-up image of a thick, rich reddish-brown meat sauce in a large white pot. The sauce has visible chunks of browned ground meat and some small pieces of tomato, all mixed in a smooth, slightly shiny texture. There is a metal spoon dipping into the sauce on the right side, partially covered by the sauce, with steam rising softly above it. The pot rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but essential, each contributing to the flavor, texture, or color that make this Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe so irresistible. From the rich beef mince and fragrant garlic to the luscious crushed tomatoes and subtle herbs, every component blends together harmoniously.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Olive oil: Provides a smooth base for sautéing the aromatics and beef, enhancing the sauce's richness.
Garlic cloves: Adds a fragrant punch that infuses the sauce with warmth.
Onion: Gives sweetness and body to the sauce, mellowing as it cooks.
Beef mince: The hearty core of the dish, offering robust flavor and satisfying texture; a mix with pork works beautifully too.
Dry red wine: Brings acidity and depth, perfectly balancing the meatiness.
Beef bouillon cubes: Amplify umami taste for a more robust sauce.
Crushed tomato: Forms the saucy, vibrant foundation with fresh tomato goodness.
Tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor, adding intensity and body.
White sugar: Cuts acidity to round out the flavor if the tomatoes are too sharp.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds subtle complexity with its tangy, savory notes.
Dried bay leaves and fresh thyme: Infuse the sauce with gentle herbal aromas.
Cooking salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all flavors.
Spaghetti: The classic pasta choice that carries the rich sauce so well.
Parmesan cheese and parsley (optional): Perfect garnishes for a touch of freshness and savory finish.

Directions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them for about 3 minutes or until they turn light golden and soften. This aromatic base really sets the tone for the whole dish.

Step 2: Increase the heat to high and add the beef mince. Break it up as it cooks, stirring often, until the meat is browned all over. This step is crucial because it develops that rich, caramelized flavor in the sauce.

Step 3: Pour in the dry red wine and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 1 minute while scraping the bottom of the pot to lift all those tasty browned bits. This simmering lets the wine reduce slightly and burn off its alcohol edge.

Step 4: Add the crumbled beef bouillon, crushed tomato, tomato paste, sugar if using, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together well, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Turn the heat down to medium so it simmers slowly without a lid, cooking for 20 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally, and add water if the sauce thickens more than you like.

Step 5: For an extra special touch, I love the slow simmer method. Add three-quarters of a cup of water, cover the pot, and let it simmer very gently on low heat for 2 to 2.5 hours. Stir about every half hour. This slow cooking tenderizes the beef and concentrates flavors beautifully. Before serving, uncover and simmer an additional 20 minutes to thicken the sauce back to the right consistency.

Step 6: Taste the sauce and adjust the salt if needed. It’s important to get this seasoning just right before combining it with the pasta.

Step 7: To toss the sauce and spaghetti together, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the packet instructions minus one minute so it’s slightly firm.

Step 8: Scoop out a mug of pasta water before draining the spaghetti. This starchy water will help your sauce cling perfectly to the noodles.

Step 9: Add the drained spaghetti directly into the bolognese sauce along with about a half cup of the reserved pasta water. Gently toss everything together over medium heat for 1 and a half to 2 minutes. The sauce will thicken slightly and beautifully coat each strand of pasta.

Step 10: Serve the spaghetti bolognese hot, garnished with freshly grated parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley if you like. Enjoy every comforting forkful!

Servings and Timing

This Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe yields about 5 generous servings, perfect for a family meal or sharing with friends. The prep time is just around 10 minutes, mainly to chop and prepare your ingredients. Cooking takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes if you take the quicker simmer route, while the slow simmer option will need about 2 to 2.5 hours plus a bit of extra finishing time. There is no resting time required, so you can dig in as soon as it’s ready. Plan ahead if you want that deeper flavor from slow cooking, but either way, it’s a relatively quick and incredibly satisfying meal.

How to Serve This Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

A close-up view of a white shallow bowl filled with spaghetti noodles layered with rich brown meat sauce mixed with small bits of meat, coated in a thick reddish-brown tomato sauce. The top layer has a light sprinkling of finely grated white cheese and small green parsley leaves scattered around. At the edge of the bowl, a silver pair of tongs rest against the noodles. The background and surface beneath the bowl show a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe, I like to offer simple sides that complement the hearty sauce without overpowering it. A crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette provides a perfect fresh contrast, while some crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette is great for mopping up the delicious sauce. If I’m feeling indulgent, a side of roasted vegetables or steamed green beans works beautifully, adding color and texture to the plate.

Presentation-wise, I love serving the dish in wide bowls so the sauce shines over the noodles. Finishing with a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese and some bright chopped parsley adds a delightful pop of flavor and color that makes the meal feel extra special. Pouring the sauce over after tossing rather than mixing it all together can create a rustic, inviting look that draws everyone to the table.

For beverages, a medium-bodied red wine like Sangiovese or Merlot pairs wonderfully, balancing the richness of the sauce. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lemon or a chilled iced tea with herbs feels refreshing alongside this comforting meal. I find this dish just right served hot and fresh from the stove, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or holiday feasts where everyone’s craving hearty, familiar flavors.

Variations

One of the things I love about my Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes and diets. If you’re looking for a lighter take, you could substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken, which still delivers satisfying flavor with less fat. For a richer taste, try mixing beef with pork mince – it adds wonderful juiciness to the sauce. If you want a vegetarian or vegan option, lentils or plant-based mince can replace the meat wonderfully while still absorbing the sauce’s robust flavors.

For those who need to avoid gluten, using gluten-free spaghetti is a simple swap that keeps the dish just as enjoyable. You could also experiment with different herbs like oregano or rosemary if you want to add a slightly different aromatic profile. Some people enjoy adding a splash of cream or a knob of butter at the end for extra silkiness, though I personally prefer to keep the sauce classic and bright.

Cooking methods can vary too. While I typically make the sauce on the stovetop, using a slow cooker can be a great hands-off approach – just brown the meat and sauté the aromatics first, then combine everything and let it cook low and slow for several hours. This method gives that deep, melding flavor with minimal effort and perfect tenderness.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of this Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. I recommend dividing the sauce and pasta if possible so you can reheat them more evenly later. Leftover sauce will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days, maintaining its flavor and texture beautifully when properly chilled.

Freezing

This bolognese freezes very well, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal. I usually freeze the sauce separately from the pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-lock bags, removing as much air as possible. It keeps well for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the sauce on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and help it regain its thick texture. If reheating the pasta, adding a small splash of water or extra sauce helps restore moisture. Avoid microwaving without stirring as it can cause uneven heating and dryness. Recombining pasta and sauce on the stove for a couple of minutes is my favorite way to refresh leftovers and bring back that freshly cooked taste.

FAQs

Can I make this Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe without wine?

Absolutely! If you don’t want to use wine, you can easily substitute it with water, beef broth, or stock. The wine adds acidity and depth, but the sauce still turns out flavorful and delicious without it. Just be sure to scrape up those browned bits to keep the rich taste.

What type of meat works best for Bolognese sauce?

Traditional Bolognese often uses a mix of beef and pork mince because pork adds juiciness and a bit more flavor complexity. However, using just beef works perfectly well too. Ground turkey or chicken are lighter alternatives, and there are also fantastic plant-based options if you want a vegetarian twist.

How long should I simmer the sauce for optimal flavor?

Simmering for at least 20 to 30 minutes develops a lovely, well-rounded flavor. For a richer, more tender sauce, a slow simmer for 2 hours or longer is ideal but not mandatory. The longer cooking allows the flavors to meld and intensify beautifully.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes! In fact, making this Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe a day ahead often enhances the flavors. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving. It’s also freezer-friendly, so preparing in bulk and freezing portions saves time on busy days.

What’s the best way to toss spaghetti with Bolognese sauce?

I recommend cooking the spaghetti just slightly underdone (one minute less than package instructions), reserving some pasta water, then tossing the pasta directly into the sauce with a little pasta water. Cooking together for a minute or two allows the sauce to cling perfectly, creating a cohesive, flavorful dish.

Conclusion

I truly hope you’ll give this Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe a try because it’s one of those timeless dishes that feels both hearty and special. It’s approachable, packed with flavor, and always brings people together around the table. Making it yourself means you can tailor it to your taste and enjoy the wonderful process of slow-simmered goodness. Trust me, once you taste it, this recipe will become a beloved favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!