1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground meat over medium heat until cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef or vegetable broth. If using red wine, add it at this stage. Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook uncovered for at least an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will become.
5. While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to salt the pasta water generously for added flavor.
6. Once the Bolognese sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together, serve it over the cooked spaghetti. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Enjoy your homemade Bolognese sauce over spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that will transport you to Italy with every bite.
Expert Tips for Success
To elevate this dish to restaurant-quality status, consider the following tips:
– Use a combination of ground meats for a more complex flavor profile.
– Let the sauce simmer low and slow to allow the flavors to develop fully.
– Grate the Parmesan cheese just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
– Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick when combined with the spaghetti.
– Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
– Don’t skimp on the garlic; it adds depth and aroma to the sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to switch things up or accommodate dietary restrictions, here are some creative variations and substitutions you can try:
– Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the sauce.
– Swap the spaghetti for zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.
– Add diced mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce for extra vegetables and flavor.
– For a vegan option, omit the meat and use lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP) instead.
– Experiment with different cheeses like pecorino or asiago for a unique twist on the classic Parmesan topping.
– If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend it lightly with an immersion blender before serving.
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