Classic Spaghetti Bolognese (Rich, Cozy Italian Comfort Food)

There’s something deeply comforting about a pot of Spaghetti Bolognese slowly simmering on the stove. The rich tomato sauce, tender ground meat, and aromatic vegetables come together into a hearty, savory dish that feels like home with every bite. This classic recipe is cozy, filling, and wonderfully simple — made with everyday ingredients but layered with flavor thanks to a slow, gentle simmer that builds depth without extra effort.

If you love Italian-inspired comfort meals, this spaghetti bolognese fits right alongside favorites like Italian Wedding Soup, Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, or a cozy bowl of Creamy Lemon Orzo with Chicken. Serve it with warm Italian bread or a simple Caesar salad for an easy, satisfying family dinner that never goes out of style. It’s the kind of timeless recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This

• Rich, slow-simmered flavor with simple ingredients

• Cozy and filling without being complicated

• Perfect for family dinners and leftovers

• Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep

• Classic comfort food that never goes out of style

Recipe Card: Spaghetti Bolognese

Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes Total Time: 1 hour Servings: 4–6

Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate)

• Calories: ~520

• Protein: ~28g

• Carbohydrates: ~48g

• Fat: ~24g

• Fiber: ~5g

• Sugar: ~7g

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 1 carrot, finely diced

• 1 celery stalk, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 works best)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce

• ½ cup beef broth (or water)

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 tablespoon milk or cream (optional, for richness)

• 12 oz spaghetti

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, and cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.

2. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it up gently as it cooks.

4. Stir in Italian seasoning, oregano, and tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

5. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, bay leaf, and milk (if using). Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

6. Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and rich.

7. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and reserve a small splash of pasta water.

8. Remove bay leaf, taste sauce, and adjust seasoning. Toss sauce with spaghetti, adding pasta water if needed.

9. Serve warm with freshly grated Parmesan.

Notes & Tips

• Low and slow simmering is key for depth of flavor.

• Finely diced vegetables blend into the sauce for a smoother texture.

• A splash of milk softens acidity and adds richness (very traditional).

• For extra flavor, finish with a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

• Leftovers taste even better the next day.

FAQs

Can I make Spaghetti Bolognese ahead of time?

Yes! The sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze Bolognese sauce?

Absolutely. Freeze the sauce (without pasta) for up to 3 months.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes — just add a little extra olive oil to keep it moist.

What should I serve with Spaghetti Bolognese?

It pairs perfectly with garlic bread, Italian bread, or a simple Caesar salad.

Final Thoughts

This Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless comfort food classic — rich, cozy, and endlessly satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just craving a comforting bowl of pasta at the end of the day. Simple, hearty, and full of flavor, this is Italian-inspired comfort cooking at its best.