Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe for Everyone

Name: Spaghetti Bolognese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1 lb lean ground turkey; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium carrot, grated; 28 oz canned whole or diced tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt & pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

September 23, 2025

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The aroma of a bubbling sauce wafts through the kitchen as you know it’s time for a comforting bowl of spaghetti bolognese. With each twirl of the fork, you embrace rich flavors and hearty textures that make this dish a family favorite.

When I whip up my spaghetti bolognese recipe, it’s like inviting everyone to gather around the table for a warm hug. It’s perfect for cozy nights or celebratory feasts where laughter mingles with the scent of garlic and simmering tomatoes.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy spaghetti bolognese recipe combines simple ingredients that deliver big flavors.
You can adjust the spices to suit your taste buds.
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table.
Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions with friends and family.

One time at a family gathering, I served my spaghetti bolognese, and my cousin declared it “better than grandma’s.” The smile on her face made all the chopping worth it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Spaghetti: Choose long strands for the best twirling experience; I recommend whole wheat for added nutrition.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Opt for lean ground meat for a healthier sauce without compromising flavor.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil to sauté your aromatics and add depth to your sauce.
Onion: Dice finely; this adds sweetness as it cooks down into your sauce.
Garlic: Fresh cloves are best; they bring a burst of flavor and aroma that’s irresistible.
Carrot: Grate or finely chop for subtle sweetness and texture in your sauce.
Canned Tomatoes: Use quality whole or diced tomatoes; they form the base of your luscious sauce.
Tomato Paste: This thickens your sauce while intensifying its flavor profile—don’t skip it!
Dried Oregano & Basil: These herbs elevate the dish; fresh herbs can be used if available.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors in your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, toss in diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

Adding Garlic and Carrots: Stir in minced garlic and grated carrots into the skillet. Cook until everything is tender and aromatic; you’ll love this sweet blend.

Browning the Meat: Add ground beef or turkey to the pan. Break it apart with a spatula until browned—let those juices flow!

Tossing in Tomatoes and Seasoning: Pour in canned tomatoes along with tomato paste. Sprinkle dried oregano and basil while stirring well to combine all those glorious flavors.

Simmering Your Sauce: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 30 minutes. This allows flavors to meld beautifully; don’t forget to stir occasionally!

Cooking Spaghetti Perfectly: Meanwhile, bring salted water to boil in another pot. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente—tender but still with a bite!

That’s all there is to making this delightful spaghetti bolognese recipe! Serve hot with fresh basil on top if you’re feeling fancy.

Prepare yourself; it’s time for some serious pasta twirling!

You Must Know

Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and aroma, making your spaghetti bolognese truly memorable. dente pasta holds sauce better, creating a perfect bite.
Let your sauce simmer longer for deeper flavors.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then brown the meat before adding tomatoes. Simultaneously, boil your pasta to ensure everything finishes at the same time.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground turkey for beef or add spinach for extra nutrition. Experimenting with spices like oregano or thyme can give your dish a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover spaghetti bolognese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth while simmering.
Always taste before serving; small adjustments can elevate your dish significantly!
Remember to reserve some pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency later.

I remember hosting friends for dinner and nervously serving my first spaghetti bolognese. They devoured it in minutes and even asked for seconds—my heart soared!