Spaghetti with Bolognese Sauce and Fresh Parmesan: A Classic Italian Comfort

Few dishes capture the essence of Italian home cooking like spaghetti with Bolognese sauce. This rich, hearty dish combines tender pasta with a slow-cooked meat sauce, infused with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and a touch of wine, topped with freshly grated Parmesan. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy meal for yourself, this recipe will guide you through each step to create an authentic, mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients

For the Bolognese Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, finely diced
1 celery stalk, finely diced
500g (1 lb) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
2 tablespoons tomato paste
400g (14 oz) canned chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup dry red wine (optional but recommended)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup whole milk or cream (optional, for richness)

For the Pasta:

400g (14 oz) spaghetti
Salt for pasta water

To Serve:

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Before starting, chop all vegetables and measure out the ingredients. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process. Dice the onion, carrot, and celery finely—this trio, known as soffritto, forms the flavor base for your sauce.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook gently for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.