Spaghetti Bolognese with Parmesan Cheese is a classic Italian comfort food that brings together rich, savory flavors and the hearty goodness of pasta. The slow-cooked Bolognese sauce, made with ground meat, tomatoes, onions, and aromatic herbs, melds perfectly with al dente spaghetti and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan.

This dish is loved worldwide for its balance of flavor, texture, and satisfying nature. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy weeknight meal. Its versatility allows for slight tweaks in ingredients while still maintaining the authentic taste that makes Bolognese a staple in Italian cuisine.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines simplicity with incredible flavor. The sauce simmers slowly, developing a rich depth while the pasta provides a soft, comforting base. Every bite offers the perfect combination of savory meat, sweet and tangy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, finished with the nutty, salty flavor of Parmesan.

It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet homemade, bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table. The ability to make extra sauce for meal prep or freezing also adds to its practicality.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and flavorful. The Bolognese sauce can be customized to personal taste, from meat selection to seasoning adjustments. It introduces you to authentic Italian cooking techniques while remaining approachable for home cooks.

Whether served for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, the combination of spaghetti, Bolognese sauce, and Parmesan cheese delivers a timeless, delicious meal that never disappoints.

Preparation Time and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Servings and Nutritional Info

Servings: 4-6
Calories: Approximately 450-500 kcal per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

• 400 grams spaghetti
• 500 grams ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium carrot, finely diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 400 grams canned chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• 120 ml red wine (optional)
• 1 cup beef or chicken stock
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
4. Stir in tomato paste, canned tomatoes, and red wine (if using).
5. Add dried oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Pour in stock.
6. Simmer uncovered on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. Remove bay leaf before serving.
7. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
8. Combine spaghetti with sauce or serve sauce on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Chop vegetables finely to ensure even cooking.
2. Heat oil and sauté onions, garlic, carrot, and celery until translucent.
3. Brown the ground meat thoroughly to develop flavor.
4. Stir in tomato paste for concentrated richness.
5. Add canned tomatoes, stock, and wine; mix well.
6. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Add bay leaf.
7. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes until sauce thickens.
8. Cook spaghetti until al dente, drain, and toss with sauce or serve individually.
9. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and basil before serving.

How to Serve

Serve hot in a deep plate or bowl, ensuring each portion has a generous amount of sauce over the spaghetti. Top with Parmesan cheese and optionally add fresh basil leaves. Pair with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh herbs if available for enhanced flavor.
• Browning the meat properly adds depth to the sauce.
• Simmering the sauce slowly improves richness and flavor.
• Adjust thickness with stock if sauce becomes too thick.

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add mushrooms for extra earthiness.
• Make it creamy by stirring in a splash of cream or milk at the end.
• Substitute spaghetti with whole wheat, gluten-free, or zucchini noodles.
• Include chili flakes for a mildly spicy Bolognese.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerate leftover sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze cooked Bolognese sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
• Cooked spaghetti can be frozen but is best made fresh to retain texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Grater for Parmesan cheese

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, the sauce can be made a day in advance; flavors improve when reheated.
2. Can I skip the wine?
   Yes, substitute with extra stock or water for a non-alcoholic version.
3. How can I make it vegetarian?
   Replace meat with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based mince.
4. Should I use fresh or canned tomatoes?
   Canned tomatoes are convenient and consistent, but fresh tomatoes can be used for a lighter taste.
5. How do I prevent the sauce from being watery?
   Simmer uncovered to reduce excess liquid and concentrate flavors.

Conclusion

Spaghetti Bolognese with Parmesan Cheese is a classic, flavorful, and comforting meal that brings the taste of Italy into your home. Its rich, savory sauce combined with perfectly cooked spaghetti and the nutty finish of Parmesan cheese makes it a versatile dish suitable for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and options for customization, this Bolognese recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a hearty, satisfying, and timeless pasta dish.