A rich and comforting Italian classic, this Spaghetti Bolognese recipe delivers deep, savory flavors with a subtle, surprising twist—cinnamon. Slow-simmered with red wine, crushed tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, this hearty meat sauce pairs perfectly with al dente spaghetti, creating a timeless meal that satisfies every time. Finished with fresh herbs and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan, it’s the ultimate cozy dinner for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Spaghetti Bolognese offers everything you crave in a comforting pasta dish—richness, depth, and a little something extra. The inclusion of cinnamon enhances the savory elements of the sauce, providing warmth and a hint of mystery that sets it apart from traditional versions. It’s also a great recipe for make-ahead meals and reheats beautifully. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- olive oil
- onion
- garlic
- carrot
- celery stalk
- ground beef (or half beef/half pork)
- tomato paste
- crushed tomatoes
- red wine (optional)
- beef broth
- dried oregano
- cinnamon
- salt and pepper
- spaghetti
- fresh basil or oregano, for garnish
- grated Parmesan, to serve
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and aromatic.
- Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
- Add crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), beef broth, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
- Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce or serve it over individual portions.
- Garnish with fresh basil or oregano and top with grated Parmesan before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: Approximately 470 kcal per serving
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground meat with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Creamy Bolognese: Stir in a splash of cream or milk at the end for a richer sauce.
- Wine-Free: Omit the wine and increase the beef broth for a non-alcoholic option.
- Pasta Alternatives: Use rigatoni, pappardelle, or even zucchini noodles for a twist.
storage/reheating
Leftover Spaghetti Bolognese stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the sauce (without the pasta) for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
What wine pairs well with Spaghetti Bolognese?
A medium- to full-bodied red wine like Chianti, Sangiovese, or Merlot pairs beautifully with the rich tomato and meat flavors of Bolognese sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious.
Can I use only beef or only pork?
Absolutely. While a mix of both adds complexity, using only beef or pork will still yield a flavorful sauce.
Is the cinnamon taste strong?
No, the cinnamon adds subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Do I need to use wine?
The wine enhances the flavor, but it can be omitted and replaced with more broth if preferred.
What kind of Parmesan should I use?
Freshly grated Parmesan from a block provides the best texture and flavor.
Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of crushed?
Yes, but for a smoother sauce, consider blending them slightly before use.
How do I avoid a watery sauce?
Let the sauce simmer uncovered and stir occasionally to help it thicken properly.
What’s the best pasta shape for Bolognese?
Spaghetti is traditional, but tagliatelle, rigatoni, or pappardelle also work well for holding the rich sauce.
Conclusion
This Classic Spaghetti Bolognese with a Secret Twist brings a delightful update to a timeless favorite. With its slow-cooked, richly layered sauce and hint of cinnamon, it’s a dish that combines comfort, elegance, and just a bit of surprise. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests, this recipe delivers hearty satisfaction every time.
Print
Classic Spaghetti Bolognese
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Classic Spaghetti Bolognese with a Secret Twist is the ultimate Italian comfort food. A hearty, slow-simmered meat sauce infused with red wine and a surprising dash of cinnamon brings warmth and depth to every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this saucy pasta dish is a must-try for any pasta lover.
Ingredients
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 carrot, finely diced
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1 celery stalk, finely diced
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1 lb ground beef (or half beef/half pork)
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1/4 cup tomato paste
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1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
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1/2 cup red wine (optional)
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1/2 cup beef broth
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1/2 tsp cinnamon (the secret twist!)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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12 oz spaghetti
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Fresh basil or oregano, for garnish
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Grated Parmesan, to serve
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, carrot, and celery for 5–7 minutes until softened and aromatic.
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Add ground meat and cook until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), beef broth, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
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Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
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Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Toss cooked pasta with the Bolognese sauce until well coated.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or oregano and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Notes
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The red wine adds richness, but you can omit it for a family-friendly version.
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The dash of cinnamon is subtle but enhances the depth of the sauce beautifully.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days—flavors get even better!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
