Name: Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 Tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium carrot, finely diced; 1 celery stalk, finely diced; 1 medium onion, finely diced; ½ pound ground beef; ½ pound ground pork; ½ cup red wine; 2 Tablespoons tomato paste; 1 ½ cups tomato sauce; ½ cup whole milk; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 16 ounces spaghetti, for serving

If you’re craving a soul-satisfying dinner that wraps you in the comforting flavors of Italy, this Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe is an absolute must-try. Rich, hearty, and packed with tender ground beef and pork simmered low and slow in a tomato sauce that’s both tangy and lightly creamy, it’s the kind of dish that turns any evening into a celebration. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself, this recipe brings warmth and a touch of rustic Italian charm right to your kitchen in about two hours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows all the ingredients for a recipe arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the bottom right side, there is a small pile of uncooked yellow spaghetti. Above it and to the left, two portions of raw ground meat rest on brown parchment paper. To the right of the meat, there are three small white bowls, each filled with finely chopped vegetables: white onion, green celery, and orange carrot, placed in a row. Above these bowls, a larger clear glass bowl contains a white liquid. To the left of that, a dark liquid is in a small textured glass. Further left, a white bowl holds thick red tomato sauce, next to it is a small white bowl with red tomato paste. Above the tomato paste, three small white bowls are arranged in a triangle, holding black pepper, white salt, and golden olive oil. A green bay leaf is visible above the large tomato sauce bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor, texture, and color in your Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, from the sweetness of diced carrots to the savory depth of red wine and the richness milk adds to soften the acidity of tomatoes.

Olive oil: The flavorful base for sautéing your veggies and meats, bringing silky richness and aroma.
Carrot, finely diced: Adds natural sweetness and a vibrant pop of orange to the sauce.
Celery stalk, finely diced: Offers subtle crunch and a fresh, herbaceous undertone.
Onion, finely diced: Provides a savory foundation with its mellow sweetness once cooked.
Ground beef: One half of the meat blend, lending hearty, robust flavor and texture.
Ground pork: Adds juiciness and a touch of sweetness that balances the beef beautifully.
Red wine: Elevates the sauce with complexity and richness, perfectly deglazing the pan.
Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that intensifies the sauce’s depth and color.
Tomato sauce: The saucy backbone, offering smooth tomato goodness throughout.
Whole milk: Gently mellows the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a creamy, velvety finish.
Bay leaves: Infuse the sauce with subtle earthy and herbal notes during the slow simmer.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the ingredients.
Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat and spiciness.
Spaghetti: Your pasta canvas for this savory Bolognese sauce, cooked perfectly al dente.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by warming olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in finely diced carrot, celery, and onion, and cook them gently until they’re soft and fragrant—about five minutes. This soffritto lays a flavorful foundation for your sauce, releasing that classic aromatic essence we all love.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

Add the ground beef and pork to the softened vegetables. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart and cook it thoroughly until no pink remains and it develops a beautiful golden brown crust. This caramelization pumps rich savory notes into your Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe.

Step 3: Deglaze with Red Wine

Pour in the red wine and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pan to dissolve those tasty browned bits. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the wine slightly reduces, concentrating its deep, fruity flavor into the sauce.

Step 4: Add Tomato Elements

Stir in the tomato paste thoroughly, coating your meat and vegetables evenly. Then pour in the tomato sauce, blending everything together into a luscious base full of vibrant color and tangy tomato goodness.

Step 5: Incorporate Milk and Seasonings

Pour in the whole milk, add bay leaves along with salt and pepper, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. The milk softens the acidity of the tomatoes, giving the sauce a subtle creaminess that makes this Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe irresistibly smooth.

Step 6: Slow Simmer for Richness

Lower the heat and partially cover the pan. Let the sauce simmer gently for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow cooking melds all flavors beautifully and tenderizes the meat perfectly.

Step 7: Cook the Spaghetti

While your sauce finishes cooking, prepare the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and keep warm, ready to soak up your hearty Bolognese sauce.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Remove the bay leaves from the sauce, give it one last stir, and spoon it generously over the cooked spaghetti. This is the moment where all the care and patience shine through in every forkful.

How to Serve Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

A black pan filled with thick rich red meat sauce with visible small chunks of carrots and minced meat, topped with a swirl of creamy pale yellow sauce and sprinkled with black pepper or other spices in the center, decorated with two vibrant green bay leaves on top, all set on a white marbled surface next to a white salt container, a black pepper grinder, and a striped cloth napkin; photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano adds a salty tang that complements the richness beautifully. Fresh basil or flat-leaf parsley can brighten the dish with their aromatic green freshness, making each bite even more satisfying.

Side Dishes

Garlic bread with crispy edges and a tender center is an unbeatable companion to mop up all that delicious sauce. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon and olive oil for a balanced, refreshing contrast that rounds out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try layering the Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe in a casserole dish topped with mozzarella and Parmesan, then bake until bubbly and golden. Alternatively, spoon your Bolognese into hollowed-out bell peppers or use it as a filling for stuffed zucchini boats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Classic Spaghetti Bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays delicious and safe to eat for up to four days, making for an easy next-day dinner or quick lunch.

Freezing

This sauce freezes wonderfully. Just cool it completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, and store for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or milk if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave it covered in a microwave-safe dish, stirring halfway through for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use only ground beef instead of mixing beef and pork?

Absolutely! Using just ground beef works well and will still give you a tasty sauce. The pork adds a bit more sweetness and fat for richness, but either way, your Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe will be comforting and delicious.

Is it necessary to use red wine in this recipe?

The red wine adds depth and complexity, but if you prefer to skip alcohol, you can substitute beef broth or water with a splash of balsamic vinegar to maintain acidity and flavor.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap the regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure that your tomato sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free!

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes! This recipe tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld. You can make the sauce up to two days ahead, refrigerate it, and reheat just before serving.

What’s the best pasta to serve with this sauce?

Traditional spaghetti is the classic choice, but wide ribbons like pappardelle or tagliatelle also work beautifully, as they hold the rich sauce exceptionally well.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Classic Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe enough if you’re looking for a comforting, authentic, and utterly satisfying meal that brings a taste of Italy straight to your kitchen. It’s straightforward to make, deeply flavorful, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Give it a try—you’ll be delighted by how easily you can create such a memorable, delicious dinner at home!