Garlic and Onion Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian-inspired dish with a rich, savory meat sauce enhanced by the aromatic flavors of garlic and onions. This hearty meal combines perfectly cooked spaghetti with a tender, flavorful Bolognese sauce that’s ideal for family dinners or casual weeknight meals.
The key to a deeply flavorful Bolognese is slowly cooking the meat with garlic, onions, and tomatoes, allowing the sauce to develop a rich, comforting taste. A sprinkle of parmesan and fresh herbs at the end takes this dish to the next level.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
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12 ounces spaghetti
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1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 large onion, finely chopped
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 carrot, finely diced (optional for sweetness)
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2 celery stalks, finely diced (optional)
Sauce
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1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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½ cup beef or chicken broth
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Topping
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
1. Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water for later.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Meat
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. If using carrots and celery, add them at this stage and cook for 5 minutes to soften.
Drain any excess fat if necessary.
4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Add oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well.
Simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
5. Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until the pasta is well coated. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Serve
Divide the spaghetti Bolognese onto plates. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Garlic and Onion Bolognese
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Cook garlic and onions slowly to bring out their natural sweetness.
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Simmer the sauce longer for richer flavor. Even 10 extra minutes improves taste.
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Use a mix of beef and pork for a more traditional Bolognese flavor.
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Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
Variations
Vegetable Bolognese
Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to bulk up the sauce.
Spicy Version
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Creamy Bolognese
Stir in ¼ cup heavy cream for a richer, velvety texture.
Low-Carb Option
Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Warm in a skillet over medium heat. Add a little broth or pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Freezing:
The sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Classic, comforting Italian flavors
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Rich and savory sauce with tender meat
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Quick enough for weeknight dinners
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Perfectly balanced garlic and onion aroma
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Easily customizable with vegetables, spices, or cream
Garlic and Onion Spaghetti Bolognese is a timeless recipe that delivers deep, comforting flavors with every bite. Juicy meat, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti create a dish that’s satisfying and crowd-pleasing. The aromatic garlic and onions elevate the sauce, making it irresistible for any pasta lover.