The Best Spicy Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
A flavorful and spicy twist on the classic Spaghetti Bolognese, this dish combines savory beef, crispy bacon, and a touch of heat from fresh red chilies, all enveloped in a rich, homemade tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a dinner party!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Del Monte Spaghetti Pasta | 400 grams |
| Minced Beef | 250 grams |
| Smoked Bacon | 4 strips |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, finely chopped |
| Carrots (Gajjar) | 2, finely chopped |
| Fresh Red Chili | 1, finely chopped |
| Homemade Tomato Puree | 2 cups |
| Red Wine (optional) | 1 cup |
| Dried Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh Basil Leaves | 1 sprig, roughly torn |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper Powder | To taste |
| Parmesan Cheese (grated or powdered) | 1/4 cup |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | For cooking (3-4 tablespoons) |
Instructions
-
Prep Ingredients
Begin by gathering and preparing all the ingredients. Boil the spaghetti pasta in salted water until al dente, according to the package instructions. Set aside once done. If you’re making your own tomato puree, prepare it as well and keep it aside. -
Cook Bacon
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat 3 to 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the smoked bacon strips and cook them until they become golden and crispy. Once crispy, remove them from the pan and set aside. Keep the bacon fat in the pan for added flavor. -
Cook Vegetables
In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion, garlic, and carrots. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and sauté the mixture over medium heat. Stir occasionally to avoid over-browning, cooking until the vegetables are tender and aromatic. -
Brown the Minced Meat
Add the minced beef to the pan and stir it well to break it up. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until the meat turns brown and is fully cooked through. -
Prepare the Bolognese Sauce
Once the beef is browned, add the homemade tomato puree to the pan. Add the roughly torn basil leaves, chopped fresh chili, and red wine (optional, but highly recommended for depth of flavor). Bring the sauce to a brisk boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together. -
Combine Spaghetti and Sauce
Once the Bolognese sauce is ready, add the cooked spaghetti into the pan. Toss the pasta with the sauce, making sure the spaghetti is well-coated. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring on high heat to help the cheese melt and incorporate into the sauce. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. If you prefer a spicier dish, add more chili to taste. -
Serve and Garnish
Serve the Spicy Spaghetti Bolognese hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. For an added touch, serve with a side of crusted cheese garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Perfect Spicy Spaghetti Bolognese:
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you enjoy a more intense kick, feel free to add more fresh red chilies or even a dash of chili flakes to the sauce.
- Red Wine: The red wine adds depth and richness to the sauce. If you’re not using it, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar effect.
- Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor and texture, but you can also use Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Enjoy this flavorful and hearty dish of Spicy Spaghetti Bolognese with a glass of your favorite wine or as a perfect comfort meal on any occasion!
