Classic Spaghetti Bolognese with Parmesan Cheese

Introduction

Classic Spaghetti Bolognese with Parmesan Cheese is one of the most beloved comfort foods in the world, combining tender pasta, a slow-simmered meat sauce, and a sprinkle of sharp, nutty Parmesan for the ultimate satisfying meal. Originating from the Italian city of Bologna, this dish has become a timeless favorite across kitchens everywhere, cherished for its deep flavors and hearty texture.

What makes this recipe so special is the rich, slow-cooked Bolognese sauce—a savory blend of ground beef (sometimes with pork), onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant herbs. The sauce is simmered to perfection, allowing all the flavors to meld into a deliciously thick and hearty base that clings beautifully to strands of spaghetti. Topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, every bite is comforting, flavorful, and full of tradition.

This dish is more than just a weeknight dinner—it’s a meal that brings people together. Whether served at a family gathering, a cozy dinner for two, or a festive celebration, Spaghetti Bolognese has a way of making everyone feel at home. It’s simple yet elegant, comforting yet full of depth, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why I Love This Recipe

Classic Spaghetti Bolognese with Parmesan Cheese is a must-try dish because it’s the perfect balance of comfort, tradition, and flavor. The sauce is rich, hearty, and slow-cooked to perfection, layering tender ground meat with the sweetness of tomatoes, the earthiness of vegetables, and the warmth of herbs and spices. Every forkful of spaghetti coated in this savory sauce feels deeply satisfying and soul-warming.

It’s also a must-try because of its versatility and universal appeal. Whether you’re cooking for kids, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a cozy meal, this dish never disappoints. The sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty finish that elevates the entire experience to restaurant-quality deliciousness.

Another reason this dish is a must-try is its timelessness and cultural value. Rooted in Italian tradition, Spaghetti Bolognese has become a global favorite, loved across continents and generations. It’s more than just food—it’s a dish that connects people, telling a story of tradition, warmth, and togetherness.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

I love this recipe because it captures the true essence of comfort food—simple ingredients transformed into something incredibly flavorful and satisfying. The slow-simmered sauce develops such a deep, rich taste that clings to every strand of spaghetti, making each bite irresistible. Adding a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top brings the whole dish together with its nutty, salty finish—it’s the kind of meal that makes me close my eyes and savor every bite.

Another reason I love this recipe is that it’s deeply nostalgic and heartwarming. It reminds me of family dinners, laughter around the table, and the joy of sharing a big pot of pasta with loved ones. No matter how many times I make it, it never loses its charm—it always feels special, whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or part of a festive occasion.

I also love how versatile and forgiving it is. You can tweak the ingredients, let the sauce simmer a little longer for extra richness, or make a big batch and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day. It’s one of those recipes that always feels like a hug in a bowl—warm, filling, and made to be shared.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: ~480 kcal
• Cuisine: Italian
• Cooking Method: Simmering on stovetop
• Course: Main course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Bolognese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 500 g (1 lb) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 100 ml (½ cup) dry red wine (optional but recommended)
• 800 g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup beef stock (or water)

For the Pasta:

• 500 g (1 lb) spaghetti
• Water and salt for boiling

For Serving:

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Bolognese Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up any lumps.
5. If using, pour in red wine and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce.
6. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, bay leaf, sugar, and beef stock.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Lower heat to a gentle simmer, cover partially, and cook for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Remove bay leaf from sauce.

1. If the sauce is too thick, loosen with a splash of pasta water.
2. Toss spaghetti with a portion of the sauce or serve the sauce over the pasta.
3. Top generously with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Step-by-Step Summary

1. Sauté aromatics for a flavor base.
2. Brown the meat for depth.
3. Add liquids & herbs and simmer for rich taste.
4. Cook pasta separately and combine.
5. Serve hot with Parmesan.

How to Serve

Serve in deep bowls, topped with Parmesan and basil. Pair with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or a glass of red wine for a complete Italian meal.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Meat mix: Use a 50/50 blend of beef and pork for richer flavor.
• Vegetarian version: Replace meat with lentils or plant-based mince.
• Extra depth: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce.
• Make it creamy: Stir in 2 tbsp of heavy cream at the end for a silky texture.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze sauce (without pasta) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Pasta pot with strainer

Conclusion

This Classic Spaghetti Bolognese with Parmesan Cheese is the definition of comfort food. With its rich, meaty sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and generous Parmesan topping, it’s a timeless Italian dish that never disappoints. Whether for a family dinner or a weekend indulgence, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home.