🍝 Introduction: Why Quick Spaghetti Bolognese is a Weeknight Hero
There’s nothing quite like a steaming plate of Spaghetti Bolognese. This Italian-inspired classic has cemented its place in kitchens around the world thanks to its rich, meaty sauce and comforting charm. But what if we told you that you don’t need hours to achieve that signature depth of flavour?
With our Quick Spaghetti Bolognese recipe, you’ll have a delicious and hearty meal on the table in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or cooking for one, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot.
Let’s dive into this time-saving classic! 🍅🕒
🛒 Ingredients for Quick Spaghetti Bolognese
To create this tasty dish, you’ll need:
For the Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
- 500g beef mince 🥩
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes 🍅
- 2 tbsp tomato purée
- 1 tsp dried oregano 🌿
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 beef stock cube
- Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
- 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
For the Pasta:
- 300g spaghetti 🍝
- Salted water, for boiling
Optional Garnish:
- Parmesan cheese, grated 🧀
- Fresh basil leaves 🌱
Pro Tip: Use high-quality chopped tomatoes for a richer sauce.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Quick Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
1. Cook the Pasta 🍝
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to packet instructions until al dente.
2. Brown the Mince 🥩
- Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add the mince and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
3. Build the Sauce 🍅
- Stir in the tomato purée and cook for 1 minute.
- Add chopped tomatoes, dried oregano, basil, sugar, and the beef stock cube.
- Season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer the Sauce 🕒
- Let the sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavours to develop.
5. Combine and Serve 🍽️
- Drain the spaghetti and toss it with the sauce.
- Serve topped with grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves.
Pro Tip: Reserve a little pasta water to add to your sauce for extra silkiness.
🌟 Tips for the Best Quick Spaghetti Bolognese
- Use lean mince for a lighter sauce.
- A splash of red wine can add depth of flavour (if you have time). 🍷
- Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a spicy kick. 🌶️
- Grate in a little carrot for added sweetness and texture. 🥕
🥄 What to Serve with Spaghetti Bolognese?
- A side of garlic bread 🥖
- Fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette 🥗
- A glass of Italian red wine, like Chianti 🍷
❓ FAQs About Quick Spaghetti Bolognese
1. Can I simmer Bolognese for 30 minutes?
Yes! While traditional Bolognese sauces simmer for hours, a 30-minute simmer is enough to create a rich and flavourful sauce for a quick weeknight meal.
2. Is 1 hour enough for Bolognese?
Absolutely. While longer simmering develops deeper flavours, 1 hour is plenty for a delicious and balanced sauce.
3. What can I add to spaghetti Bolognese to make it taste better?
- A splash of red wine 🍷
- A teaspoon of sugar to balance acidity 🍬
- A dash of Worcestershire sauce for richness 🌟
- Fresh herbs like basil or oregano 🌿
4. Do you need to brown mince for Bolognese?
Yes, browning the mince is essential! It caramelises the meat and adds a rich, deep flavour to your sauce.
📦 Storing and Reheating Spaghetti Bolognese
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze sauce (without pasta) for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.
Pro Tip: Always cook fresh pasta when reheating the sauce.
🍅 The Secret Ingredient: Love and Patience
Cooking is about creating memories, even when you’re short on time. Quick Spaghetti Bolognese is more than just a meal — it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a family favourite, and the perfect way to unwind after a busy day.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe proves that great flavour doesn’t have to take hours.
🎁 Time to Cook: Your Quick Bolognese Awaits! 🍝✨
Now that you’ve got the perfect Quick Spaghetti Bolognese recipe in your hands, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking.
Serve it with love, sprinkle it with Parmesan, and don’t forget to snap a photo before digging in!
Complete your meal with our Cheese Scones Pairings. These savoury scones are the perfect companion to soak up every last drop of your rich Bolognese sauce.
Buon appetito! 🇮🇹❤️
We’d love to hear how your spaghetti turned out — share your thoughts in the comments below! 💬🍝