Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti Bolognese: a simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to my kitchen! Today I invite you to discover together a classic yet always tasty recipe: spaghetti Bolognese. This recipe is perfect for days when you want to enjoy a comforting dish that brings a smile to your face. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you will create a meal that will impress both family and friends.

A bit of history

Bolognese sauce is a traditional recipe that has its roots in Italian cuisine. Originating from Bologna, this sauce has evolved over time, having numerous variations. Although there are many ways to prepare it, today we will focus on a simplified version that uses a packet of Maggi sauce to make cooking even more accessible.

Ingredients

- 300 g ground chicken (or beef, according to preference)
- 400 g spaghetti
- 1 packet Maggi Idea of the Day, base for spaghetti Bolognese
- 1 small onion (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- 3 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil, for a richer taste)
- 300 ml water
- Salt, to taste
- Grated cheese or parmesan for serving (optional)

Preparation steps

1. Boil the spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, depending on their thickness.

2. Prepare the meat
Meanwhile, in another pot or skillet, place the chicken breast to boil. If you prefer ground meat, there is no need to boil it, but if using a whole breast, boil it until it turns white and cooked, about 10 minutes. Remove it from the water and let it cool slightly, then chop it finely or use a meat grinder.

3. Sauté the onion
In a deep skillet, heat the 3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion (if you choose to use it) and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step will give a special flavor to the sauce.

4. Add the meat and sauce
Once the onion is ready, add the ground meat to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Let them simmer together for a few minutes to blend the flavors. The next step is to mix the packet of Maggi with 300 ml of water and add it to the skillet. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If desired, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste dissolved in water for a more intense flavor.

5. Boil the spaghetti
When the spaghetti is cooked, remove it from the water and rinse it with a stream of cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from sticking.

6. Mixing the pasta with the sauce
In a large bowl or deep skillet, add the cooked spaghetti, then pour the meat sauce over it. Gently mix, ensuring that every strand of spaghetti is evenly coated with sauce.

7. Serving and variations
Serve the spaghetti Bolognese on plates. If desired, sprinkle grated cheese or parmesan on top for added flavor. This dish is delicious both hot and at room temperature, so feel free to reheat it the next day!

Practical tips

- Types of meat: Experiment with different types of meat! You can use pork, beef, or even a vegetarian option with chopped mushrooms for a healthier choice.
- Seasonings: Add spices like oregano, basil, or even a bit of chili pepper for a spicy kick to the sauce.
- Pasta variations: If you want to try something different, use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.

Nutritional information

One serving of spaghetti Bolognese contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the type of meat and cheese used. This dish is a good source of protein and carbohydrates, providing you with the energy needed for an active day.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use different pasta?
Of course! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or tagliatelle. Each variation will add a unique texture to the dish.

- How can I make the sauce creamier?
Add a few tablespoons of sour cream or mascarpone cheese to the meat sauce to make it creamier and richer.

- Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for the whole family. Kids will love the taste and texture of the pasta, and the sauce is easy to eat.

I hope you enjoyed this spaghetti Bolognese recipe and that you will try making it at home. It is a versatile dish, ideal for a quick dinner or even for being kept in the fridge for lunch the next day. Enjoy your meal!