Classic Spaghetti Bolognese

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery (this classic trio is called soffritto) and cook for 4-5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper and drain any excess fat if needed. This vegetable base creates the authentic flavor foundation that makes Bolognese so rich and complex.

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to develop deeper flavor and remove the raw taste. Add the red wine or beef broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol and concentrate the flavors. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and bay leaf, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and let it cook for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and develop a rich, deep color while the flavors meld together beautifully.

While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, usually 10-12 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta cooking water before draining. Remove the bay leaf from the sauce and stir in the heavy cream for richness and to balance the acidity. Add the drained pasta directly to the sauce and toss with tongs to coat every strand. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately in warmed bowls, twirling the spaghetti with a fork for an authentic presentation. Top each serving generously with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves for color and aroma. Serve with additional Parmesan cheese on the side and perhaps some crusty Italian bread to complete this classic comfort food experience. This quick version of Bolognese delivers all the rich, meaty flavors of the traditional recipe in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners while still maintaining that authentic Italian taste that has made this dish beloved worldwide.