Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsNapoli's Italian RestaurantPasta Bolognese Recipe

Pasta Bolognese Recipe

Time50m
Serves4

Pasta with a rich meat sauce.

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Bolognese Sauce

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring 4 liters of water to a rolling boil over high heat.

  2. 2

    Add Salt

    Once the water is boiling, add 1 tablespoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta.

  3. 3

    Cook Spaghetti

    Add 400g of spaghetti to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente.

  4. 4

    Drain Pasta

    Once cooked, drain the spaghetti in a colander and set aside, reserving a little pasta water if desired.

Making Bolognese Sauce

  1. 5

    Heat Olive Oil

    In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

  2. 6

    Sauté Vegetables

    Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and diced celery to the pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

  3. 7

    Add Garlic

    Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  4. 8

    Brown the Meat

    Add 500g of ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.

  5. 9

    Add Tomatoes and Wine

    Pour in 400g of crushed canned tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 100ml of red wine. Stir well to combine.

  6. 10

    Season the Sauce

    Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir and let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  7. 11

    Combine with Pasta

    Once the sauce is thickened and flavorful, add the drained spaghetti to the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.

  8. 12

    Serve

    Serve the pasta bolognese hot, topped with 50g of grated parmesan cheese.

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