This recipe is a favorite in my house. Delicious, rich and hearty spaghetti bolognese. If you have never had bolognese, it's not your traditional red marinara spaghetti sauce. It has more depth of flavor, more ingredients, and it's so delicious.

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Try this for dinner, when you get a chance.

Ingredients

For the Bolognese Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup milk (optional, for creaminess)

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces spaghetti
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions

• Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
• Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef (and pork, if using) to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
• Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For a richer flavor, simmer for up to an hour. If desired, stir in the milk towards the end for added creaminess.
• Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
• Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce until well combined. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

What do you think?

Crusty garlic bread and a fresh salad is all you need to add to this! You will enjoy every bite!