Simple Spaghetti with Bolognese Sauce

This delicious spaghetti with Bolognese sauce is a comforting classic, perfect for a weeknight dinner. The rich flavors of minced pork, tomatoes, and garlic create a heartwarming dish that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas. While the authentic version of Bolognese sauce often takes hours to prepare, this simplified recipe has been adapted for quicker results without sacrificing taste. A few simple steps and easily available ingredients make it approachable for any home cook. The combination of spaghetti and savory meat sauce comes together in just under half an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings. Though it’s a straightforward recipe, there’s room for creativity by adding your favorite spices or herbs. Make it once, and it’s bound to become a staple in your household. With a few garnish and serving suggestions, you can elevate this dish into a restaurant-quality meal. Embrace the Italian tradition by pairing it with a crisp salad or a freshly baked garlic bread.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 400g spaghetti
• 400g minced pork
• 400g canned chopped tomatoes in tomato juice
• 2 onions
• 4 garlic cloves

Spices and Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons flour (optional)
• Salt, pepper, and pork seasoning blend to taste

Preparation Time

• Total time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by finely chopping the onions and garlic. This will be the base flavor for your sauce.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat and add the chopped onions.
4. Sauté the onions until they turn translucent and begin to brown slightly.
5. Add the garlic to the pan and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
6. Next, add the minced pork to the pan. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned all over.
7. If desired, sprinkle in the flour. Stir it in well to mix with the meat, helping to thicken the sauce.
8. Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juice. Stir well to combine with the meat mixture.
9. Add salt, pepper, and pork seasoning blend to taste. Adjust according to your preference.
10. Let the sauce simmer on medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
11. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
12. As the sauce simmers, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
13. Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency and taste, remove it from the heat.
14. Toss the cooked spaghetti with a small amount of butter if desired, to prevent sticking and add flavor.
15. Mix the spaghetti directly with the sauce in the pan, or serve the sauce over individual servings of pasta.
16. Optional: Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil for garnishing.
17. If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added for a spicy kick.
18. For those who love creamy sauces, add a splash of cream for richness.
19. Serve immediately, paired with your choice of side dishes.
20. Enjoy your homemade spaghetti with Bolognese sauce, a quick and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Tips

• Substitutions: If you prefer, use ground beef or turkey instead of pork for a different flavor profile.
• Enhanced Flavor: Adding a bay leaf to the sauce while it simmers can deepen the flavor.
• Onion Alternative: Try shallots instead of onions for a more subtle taste.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme to customize the taste.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 60g

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth.
• Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free pasta and skip the flour, or use a gluten-free thickener.
• Lower-Calorie: Use lean ground turkey and whole wheat spaghetti.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Pair with crusty garlic bread or a warm, buttered baguette.
• A glass of red wine adds a delightful complement to the meal.

Best Places

• Trattoria Da Enzo al 29 - Renowned for their homely pasta dishes. Location: Via dei Vascellari, 29, Rome, Italy.
• Osteria Francescana - Award-winning restaurant with exquisite Italian cuisine. Location: Via Stella, 22, Modena, Italy.
• La Pergola - Offers a stunning view with high-class Italian dishes. Location: Via Alberto Cadlolo, 101, Rome, Italy.
• L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon - Infamous for its eclectic international menu with Italian influences. Location: 5 Rue Montalembert, Paris, France.
• Gusto Ferrari - Known for its authentic pasta dishes. Location: 123 Main St., Florence, Italy.
• Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina - Combines a deli and restaurant atmosphere with high-quality Italian ingredients. Location: Via dei Giubbonari, 21/22, Rome, Italy.
• Locanda Locatelli - Famous for the chef’s creative flair in Italian cuisine. Location: 8 Seymour St, Marylebone, London, England.
• The Spaghetti House - Offers a wide range of pasta dishes. Location: 37 Duke St, London, England.
• Da Nicola - Celebrated for bringing Italian culinary traditions to the heart of the city. Location: Canton Shopping Street, Guangzhou, China.
• Mamma Melina Ristorante - Popular for its cozy ambiance and delicious Italian menu. Location: 5101 25th Ave NE, Seattle, USA.