The Best Spicy Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe
Course: Dinner | Cuisine: Italian | Diet: Non-Vegetarian
If you’re in the mood for a hearty, flavorful, and mildly spicy dinner, look no further than this Spicy Spaghetti Bolognese. The combination of roasted bacon, minced beef, and a rich herbed tomato sauce tossed with perfectly cooked spaghetti creates a dish that is as comforting as it is satisfying. Each bite bursts with the deep flavors of tomatoes and a touch of spice from the fresh red chili, making it the perfect meal for any day of the week or a special dinner gathering. This dish can be easily adjusted for spice lovers, adding extra chili to intensify the heat. When topped with a generous helping of Parmesan cheese, it becomes an irresistible culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Durum Wheat Spaghetti Pasta | 400 grams |
| Beef (minced) | 250 grams |
| Bacon (smoked, finely chopped) | 4 slices |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 large |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 3 cloves |
| Carrots (Gajjar, finely chopped) | 2 medium |
| Fresh Red Chilli (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Homemade Tomato Puree | 2 cups |
| Red Wine (optional) | 1 cup |
| Dried Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Basil Leaves (roughly torn) | 1 sprig |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper Powder | To taste |
| Parmesan Cheese (grated or powdered) | 1/4 cup |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 3-4 tablespoons (for cooking) |
Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
45 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, ensuring it’s al dente, then drain and set aside. Also, prepare the homemade tomato puree if you haven’t already, and keep it aside for later. -
Cook the Bacon:
Heat 3 to 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped bacon to the pan and fry until it turns golden brown and crispy. This will take about 5-7 minutes, giving the dish a rich depth of flavor. -
Add the Vegetables:
Once the bacon is crisped, add the finely chopped onion, garlic, and carrots. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and stir-fry the mixture over medium heat. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, ensuring the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized but not overdone. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. -
Cook the Minced Beef:
Add the minced beef to the pan, breaking it up with your spatula. Cook the meat, stirring frequently, until it is fully browned and no longer pink. This step should take about 10-12 minutes. Browning the beef enhances its flavor and adds a savory richness to the sauce. -
Prepare the Bolognese Sauce:
Once the beef is browned, pour in the homemade tomato puree and stir. Add the freshly chopped red chili, torn basil leaves, and optional red wine. Allow the sauce to come to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken, and the flavors will meld into a rich, savory combination. -
Toss the Pasta:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan with the sauce. Toss the pasta into the sauce, ensuring each strand is well coated. Allow the pasta to sauté on high heat for 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce infuse into the spaghetti. If necessary, adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper, or add additional chili if you prefer more spice. -
Finish the Dish:
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix well. This will give the dish a creamy finish, adding a perfect balance of flavor. -
Serve:
Transfer the Spicy Spaghetti Bolognese onto serving plates and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese for an added touch of decadence. Pair with a side of crusty cheese garlic bread for a complete, comforting dinner experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish as part of a dinner party or a hearty weeknight meal. The rich flavors and slightly spicy kick make it a crowd-pleaser, and the addition of crusted cheese garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the pasta. Enjoy the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and creamy in every bite!
Tips for a Perfect Spicy Spaghetti Bolognese
- Adjust the Spice: The fresh red chili gives the dish a subtle heat, but you can add more if you want an extra spicy kick. Alternatively, you could add red pepper flakes for a different flavor profile.
- Wine: The red wine is optional but highly recommended for an added depth of flavor. If you choose not to use wine, you can substitute it with a splash of beef broth or simply add more tomato puree for richness.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, swap the minced beef with lentils or a meat substitute, and use vegetable broth in place of the wine.
This Spicy Spaghetti Bolognese is sure to become a family favorite. The smoky bacon, savory beef, fresh vegetables, and herbed tomato sauce, all tossed together with al dente pasta, create a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
