Print

Hairy Bikers Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

Hairy Bikers Spaghetti Bolognese

Hairy Bikers Spaghetti Bolognese is a British-style take on the traditional Italian meat sauce. It combines minced beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs to create a rich and flavorful pasta sauce.

Unlike quick pasta sauces, this Bolognese benefits from slow simmering. The longer cooking time allows the meat, tomatoes, and aromatics to develop a deeper taste. When served over freshly cooked spaghetti and finished with grated cheese, the result is a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Meat

  • Minced beef (500 g) – Choose good-quality beef with a little fat for a richer flavor.

Aromatics

  • Onion (1 medium, finely chopped) – Builds the base flavor of the sauce.

  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Adds depth and warmth.

  • Carrot (1 small, finely diced) – Brings mild sweetness to balance the acidity of tomatoes.

  • Celery (1 stalk, finely chopped) – Adds subtle savory aroma.

Tomato Base

  • Canned chopped tomatoes (400 g) – Form the main body of the sauce.

  • Tomato puree (2 tablespoons) – Intensifies tomato flavor.

  • Beef stock (½ cup) – Adds richness and depth.

Seasoning and Herbs

  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons) – Used for sautéing the vegetables.

  • Dried oregano (1 teaspoon) – Provides a classic Italian-style aroma.

  • Dried basil (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall herb flavor.

  • Salt and black pepper – Adjust to taste.

Pasta and Garnish

  • Spaghetti (400 g) – Traditional pasta used for Bolognese.

  • Parmesan cheese (grated) – Adds a salty, nutty finish.

  • Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish and freshness.

Instructions

Step 1 – Cook the Aromatic Base

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their aroma.

Step 2 – Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. The garlic should become fragrant but not browned.

Step 3 – Brown the Beef

Add the minced beef to the pan. Cook while breaking it apart with a spoon until the meat turns brown and slightly caramelized.

Step 4 – Add Tomato Base

Stir in the tomato puree and cook for a minute to deepen the flavor. Then add the canned chopped tomatoes and beef stock.

Step 5 – Season the Sauce

Add oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

Step 6 – Simmer the Bolognese

Reduce the heat and allow the sauce to simmer for about 25–30 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and the flavors develop.

Step 7 – Cook the Spaghetti

Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta.

Step 8 – Combine and Serve

Serve the Bolognese sauce over the spaghetti. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.