Beef Bolognese with Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti: A Rich and Comforting Meal

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Beef Bolognese with Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti is a hearty and indulgent dish that combines a rich, meaty Bolognese sauce with silky, garlic-infused spaghetti. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress. Below is a detailed recipe with step-by-step instructions, variations, and tips to help you create the perfect Beef Bolognese with Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti.

Ingredients

For the Bolognese Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
  • 1 can (28 oz/800g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional, substitute with broth)
  • 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti:

  • 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Make the Bolognese Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
  3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine (or broth), beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper.
  4. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water as needed to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

  1. Divide the creamy garlic butter spaghetti among serving plates.
  2. Top with a generous ladle of Bolognese sauce.
  3. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
  4. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Bolognese sauce.
  • Cheesy Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella or fontina cheese into the creamy garlic butter sauce.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Cooking Notes

  • For a richer Bolognese sauce, let it simmer for up to 1 hour.
  • If the creamy garlic butter sauce is too thick, add more reserved pasta water or cream to reach your desired consistency.
  • Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
  • Pair with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot.
  • Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering.

Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • To freeze, store the Bolognese sauce and spaghetti separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
  • Double the Bolognese sauce recipe—it’s great for meal prep or freezing.

Prep Time:

  • 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

  • 45 minutes

Total Time:

  • 1 hour

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 4):

  • Calories: 650
  • Protein: 30g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 4g

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
    Yes, fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work well too.
  2. What if I don’t have red wine?
    You can substitute with additional beef or chicken broth.
  3. Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes, prepare the Bolognese sauce and spaghetti separately, then assemble and reheat just before serving.
  4. Is this dish kid-friendly?
    Absolutely! Omit the red wine and adjust the seasoning to suit their taste.

Conclusion

Beef Bolognese with Creamy Garlic Butter Spaghetti is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich Bolognese sauce, creamy spaghetti, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe

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