Spaghetti Bolognese
Classic Italian pasta with a rich, hearty meat sauce simmered with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz cans)
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
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1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the 8 oz spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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2
While the pasta is cooking, heat the 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat.
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3
Add the 1/2 lb ground beef to the hot oil and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the ground beef has reached an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
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4
Add the diced 1/2 onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
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5
Add the minced 2 garlic cloves and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
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6
Pour in the 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz cans) and stir to combine. Add the 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp dried basil, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
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7
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce, partially covered, for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly.
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8
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
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9
Serve the sauce over the cooked spaghetti. Optionally, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.