Jamie Oliver’s Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian-inspired dish with a rich, hearty sauce served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. This family favorite is packed with flavor, combining tender beef, aromatic vegetables, and a luscious tomato-based sauce. It’s simple to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
What is Jamie Oliver Spaghetti Bolognese?
Spaghetti Bolognese is a traditional Italian-style meat sauce made with ground beef, vegetables, and tomatoes, simmered to perfection, and served over spaghetti. Jamie Oliver’s version includes a touch of modern flair while staying true to its roots, making it both delicious and easy to prepare.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: Perfectly balanced ingredients for a hearty dish.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps for a rewarding meal.
- Customizable: Adjust spices or add vegetables to suit your taste.
- Perfect Comfort Food: A classic dish for any occasion.
Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Spaghetti Bolognese
For the Bolognese Sauce
- Ground Beef (500g): The main protein.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing.
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
- Carrot (1 large, finely chopped): Provides a subtle sweetness.
- Celery (1 stalk, finely chopped): Adds flavor and texture.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the flavor.
- Tomato Paste (2 tbsp): Concentrates the tomato flavor.
- Canned Tomatoes (400g): Forms the base of the sauce.
- Beef Stock (200ml): Adds richness.
- Red Wine (optional, 100ml): Enhances the depth of flavor.
- Bay Leaf (1): Adds a herby aroma.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
For the Spaghetti
- Spaghetti (400g): The perfect pasta pairing.
- Salt (for boiling water)
For Garnish
- Parmesan Cheese (grated): Adds a savory finish.
- Fresh Basil (chopped): For a touch of freshness.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Frying pan or deep skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Spaghetti Bolognese
Step 1: Prepare the vegetables
Finely chop the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Set them aside for sautéing.
Step 2: Cook the ground beef
Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the vegetables
In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Build the sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance its flavor. Return the browned beef to the pan. Add the canned tomatoes, beef stock, red wine (if using), and bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 5: Simmer the sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and develop a rich flavor.
Step 6: Cook the spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 7: Assemble the dish
Remove the bay leaf from the sauce. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce, or serve the sauce ladled over the spaghetti.
Step 8: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle-grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil over the top before serving.
What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Spaghetti Bolognese
- Garlic Bread: A classic side dish.
- Green Salad: Adds freshness and balance.
- Roasted Vegetables: Complements the hearty sauce.
- Red Wine: Pairs perfectly with the rich flavors.
- Soup: Start with a light minestrone or tomato soup.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Spaghetti Bolognese
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality meat make a difference.
- Simmer Low and Slow: Allowing the sauce to simmer enhances the flavors.
- Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: Reserve a splash of pasta water to mix into the sauce for better consistency.
- Customize the Protein: Swap beef for pork, turkey, or a mix of meats for variety.
- Serve Immediately: Spaghetti Bolognese is best enjoyed fresh and warm.
Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Spaghetti Bolognese
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with lentils or plant-based mince.
- Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream for a richer sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Add rosemary or thyme for extra aroma.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier twist.
Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Spaghetti Bolognese
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the sauce (without spaghetti) in portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or stock if needed.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for Bolognese?
Yes, you can use any pasta type, such as tagliatelle, penne, or fettuccine, as they pair well with Bolognese sauce.
How do I make spaghetti Bolognese more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, add a splash of red wine, and simmer the sauce for a longer time to develop deeper flavors.
Can I freeze Bolognese sauce?
Yes, Bolognese sauce freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
How do I prevent spaghetti from sticking together?
Cook spaghetti in plenty of salted boiling water, stirring occasionally, and drain it promptly. Toss it with a bit of olive oil or sauce to prevent sticking.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Spaghetti Bolognese is a comforting and flavorful classic that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, hearty sauce and tender pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Try it for dinner tonight and enjoy the ultimate Italian-inspired comfort food!
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Jamie Oliver Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 45
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: British
Description
Spaghetti Bolognese is a traditional Italian-style meat sauce made with ground beef, vegetables, and tomatoes, simmered to perfection, and served over spaghetti. Jamie Oliver’s version includes a touch of modern flair while staying true to its roots, making it both delicious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Bolognese Sauce
- Ground Beef (500g): The main protein.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing.
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
- Carrot (1 large, finely chopped): Provides a subtle sweetness.
- Celery (1 stalk, finely chopped): Adds flavor and texture.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the flavor.
- Tomato Paste (2 tbsp): Concentrates the tomato flavor.
- Canned Tomatoes (400g): Forms the base of the sauce.
- Beef Stock (200ml): Adds richness.
- Red Wine (optional, 100ml): Enhances the depth of flavor.
- Bay Leaf (1): Adds a herby aroma.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
For the Spaghetti
- Spaghetti (400g): The perfect pasta pairing.
- Salt (for boiling water)
For Garnish
- Parmesan Cheese (grated): Adds a savory finish.
- Fresh Basil (chopped): For a touch of freshness.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the vegetables
Finely chop the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Set them aside for sautéing.
Step 2: Cook the ground beef
Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the vegetables
In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Build the sauce
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance its flavor. Return the browned beef to the pan. Add the canned tomatoes, beef stock, red wine (if using), and bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 5: Simmer the sauce
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and develop a rich flavor.
Step 6: Cook the spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 7: Assemble the dish
Remove the bay leaf from the sauce. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce, or serve the sauce ladled over the spaghetti.
Step 8: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle-grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil over the top before serving.
