Mary Berry Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a comforting, rich, and flavorful spaghetti bolognese, then Mary Berry’s recipe is one you absolutely have to try!

Known for her simple yet mouthwatering dishes, Mary Berry combines classic ingredients with a dash of culinary genius to create a bolognese that’s perfectly balanced, hearty, and sure to satisfy your taste buds. The beauty of this recipe lies in its easy-to-follow steps, so even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Whether you’re cooking for the family or impressing guests, this bolognese will be a crowd-pleaser every single time!

Mary Berry Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

Ingredients Needed

When preparing Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese, you’ll need a well-rounded selection of ingredients to create a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta. This traditional Italian dish is deceptively simple, yet its flavor profile is complex, thanks to the careful balance of ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Olive Oil – A good quality extra virgin olive oil serves as the base for sautéing your vegetables and meats. It contributes both flavor and richness to the dish.

2. Onion – A finely chopped onion provides a savory sweetness when cooked, forming the foundation of the sauce’s flavor.

3. Carrot – Grated or finely diced, carrot adds a subtle sweetness and a slight earthiness to the sauce. It also gives the bolognese a nice texture.

4. Celery – Finely chopped celery adds an aromatic, fresh flavor, which is essential in balancing the richness of the meat.

5. Garlic – Minced garlic offers a pungent, aromatic base that enhances the overall depth of the sauce.

6. Lean Ground Beef – A key ingredient in any Bolognese, lean ground beef adds a meaty, hearty texture. Some variations may also include pork or a mix of both, but Mary Berry’s version keeps it straightforward with just beef.

7. Tomato Purée – Rich and concentrated, tomato purée provides a deep, tangy tomato flavor that complements the beef.

8. Canned Tomatoes – Crushed or chopped canned tomatoes bring acidity and a slightly sweet undertone to balance the richness of the meat.

9. Red Wine – Adding a splash of red wine elevates the dish by contributing acidity and complexity. It helps deglaze the pan and adds a depth of flavor to the sauce.

10. Beef Stock – The stock adds depth and richness to the sauce, making it smooth and velvety as it simmers.

11. Herbs – A mixture of dried oregano, thyme, and bay leaves creates the classic Italian herb flavor, but fresh basil can also be added for a burst of freshness at the end of cooking.

12. Salt and Pepper – These basic seasonings help bring out the natural flavors of the dish. Adjust to taste.

13. Spaghetti – Of course, you’ll need your pasta to serve with the Bolognese sauce. Spaghetti is the classic choice for this dish, but you can also use other pasta types like tagliatelle or pappardelle for a different experience.

14. Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated parmesan cheese is essential for serving, adding a salty, umami kick to every bite.

Equipment Needed

To prepare Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese, a few key pieces of equipment are necessary to ensure a smooth cooking process and delicious results. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Large Frying Pan or Dutch Oven – A sturdy, wide pan is ideal for browning the meat and cooking the vegetables. A Dutch oven is particularly helpful because it distributes heat evenly and retains moisture, which is crucial for slow-cooked dishes like Bolognese.

2. Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the sauce and breaking up the meat as it cooks, a wooden spoon or spatula is best. It allows you to gently scrape up any bits that might stick to the bottom of the pan, which adds flavor.

3. Chopping Board and Knife – A good-quality chopping board and sharp knife are essential for preparing your vegetables and meat. You’ll need to chop your onions, carrots, celery, and garlic finely to create a smooth, integrated sauce.

4. Grater – If you’re using fresh carrots or cheese, a box grater or microplane will come in handy. Grating the carrot helps it cook quickly and evenly into the sauce.

5. Colander – After boiling your spaghetti, a colander is necessary for draining the water from the pasta. Be sure to reserve a little pasta water to help loosen the sauce if necessary.

6. Ladle or Large Spoon – When serving the spaghetti and sauce, a ladle or large spoon is essential to transfer the Bolognese sauce from the pan to the pasta.

7. Saucepan – A separate pot or saucepan will be needed to cook the spaghetti. Make sure to use a large enough pot so that the pasta has plenty of room to move around in the boiling water.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese

Making Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese involves a few straightforward steps that come together to create a beautifully balanced, flavorful dish. Let’s walk through the process:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion, carrot, and celery finely. Mince the garlic, and if you’re using fresh herbs, chop them as well. Grate the parmesan cheese and set it aside for garnish.

2. Cook the Vegetables: Heat a tablespoon or two of olive oil in a large frying pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrot, and celery, and sauté them until softened, around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

3. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pan and use your wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Allow the meat to brown evenly, cooking for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor in your Bolognese sauce.

4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Let the wine simmer for a few minutes to cook off the alcohol and reduce slightly.

5. Add Tomatoes and Stock: Stir in the tomato purée and canned tomatoes, followed by the beef stock. Add the dried oregano, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to season the sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, then reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful it becomes, so feel free to let it simmer for up to an hour if you have the time.

6. Cook the Spaghetti: While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 9-11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti, reserving a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

7. Combine and Serve: Taste the Bolognese sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. Serve the spaghetti on plates, spoon the Bolognese sauce over the top, and garnish with a generous sprinkling of grated parmesan.

Expert Tips

• Slow and Low Cooking: For the most flavorful Bolognese sauce, don’t rush it. Let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, preferably longer. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld together. This slow cooking process also helps tenderize the meat and deepens the flavor profile of the sauce.

• Use Good Quality Beef: The meat is the heart of your Bolognese sauce, so make sure to use good-quality lean ground beef. If you prefer a richer sauce, you could use a mix of beef and pork or even veal, but Mary Berry’s recipe sticks with beef for simplicity.

• Customize with Herbs: While oregano and thyme are classic Bolognese herbs, feel free to experiment with others like rosemary or fresh basil. Fresh basil added at the end of cooking can give the dish a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor.

• Finishing Touch: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese is non-negotiable for adding a nutty, salty finish. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving can give the dish an extra layer of richness.

Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines the warmth of traditional Italian flavors with the rich heartiness of British cooking. By carefully selecting fresh ingredients and allowing the sauce to simmer to perfection, you can create a meal that is both delicious and satisfying.

Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this Bolognese will undoubtedly become a go-to favorite. It’s the type of dish that brings people together, offering both rich, complex flavors and simple, nourishing ingredients in every bite.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese

Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, offering rich flavors and hearty satisfaction. However, there are plenty of fun and easy variations to customize this classic dish to your tastes or to suit dietary preferences. Let’s explore some of these delicious options!

1. Vegetarian Or Vegan Bolognese

If you’re looking to reduce meat consumption, swapping out the beef and pork with plant-based alternatives can be a great option. You can use lentils, mushrooms, or textured vegetable protein (TVP) to replicate the meaty texture and rich flavor.

Lentils, in particular, hold their shape well and absorb flavors beautifully, making them an ideal choice for a vegetarian Bolognese. To make it vegan, simply omit any dairy (like parmesan) and ensure your pasta is egg-free.

2. Adding Extra Vegetables

Mary Berry’s Bolognese already includes onions, garlic, and carrots, but adding even more vegetables can bring depth and color to the sauce. You can grate or finely chop zucchini, bell peppers, or celery for added nutrition and flavor. For a more robust sauce, try incorporating spinach, kale, or mushrooms-these ingredients complement the tomato sauce while enhancing its earthy flavors.

3. Spicy Bolognese

If you prefer a little heat in your meals, consider adding chili flakes, fresh chopped chilies, or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. A pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped fresh chili pepper (depending on your tolerance for heat) can elevate the dish with a spicy kick that perfectly balances the richness of the sauce.

4. Different Meats

While the traditional Bolognese recipe uses a combination of beef and pork, there are other meats that can add a unique twist. Ground turkey or chicken is a leaner alternative, reducing the fat content while maintaining a satisfying texture. For a richer, more robust flavor, you could try using lamb instead of beef, or even veal if you prefer a slightly more delicate flavor.

5. Bolognese With Wine Or Beer

Adding a splash of red wine or even a dark beer to your Bolognese sauce can significantly deepen its flavors. The alcohol evaporates during cooking, leaving behind a rich and complex taste.

Red wine especially enhances the savory notes of the sauce, while beer can add a slightly malty sweetness. Either choice offers a new dimension to Mary Berry’s classic Bolognese.

6. Bolognese With Cream Or Cheese

For a creamier and more luxurious texture, consider stirring in a little double cream toward the end of cooking. This will create a silky, velvety sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. Another option is to mix in a handful of grated cheese such as parmesan or pecorino before serving, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce for added richness and flavor.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers from your Spaghetti Bolognese is a fantastic way to ensure you have a quick, delicious meal ready for later in the week. However, to preserve the quality and taste of your dish, there are a few key practices you should follow.

1. Cool Down The Sauce Properly

Before storing any leftovers, it’s important to allow the Bolognese sauce to cool down to room temperature. This prevents the growth of bacteria that can occur if hot food is stored immediately in the fridge. Spread the sauce out in a shallow container to help it cool faster.

2. Use Airtight Containers

When storing Bolognese sauce, always use airtight containers to ensure the dish stays fresh for as long as possible. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal, as they’ll keep the moisture in and prevent any odors from affecting the sauce.

3. Separate The Pasta And Sauce

If you have leftover pasta, it’s best to store the spaghetti separately from the sauce. Pasta tends to absorb moisture from the sauce, causing it to become mushy when reheated. Store the sauce and the cooked pasta in separate containers, and when you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat the sauce and toss it with the pasta.

4. Freezing Leftovers

Bolognese sauce freezes beautifully, making it an excellent candidate for meal prepping. To freeze, allow the sauce to cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags.

Be sure to leave a little room for expansion, as liquids can expand when frozen. Label the bags with the date, so you know how long it’s been stored. Leftover pasta can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the sauce separately to maintain the pasta’s texture.

5. Reheating Leftovers

Reheat your Bolognese sauce gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly. If the sauce has thickened too much during storage, you can add a splash of water, broth, or wine to loosen it up. For reheating pasta, a quick toss in boiling water for a couple of minutes should bring it back to life, or you can microwave it with a damp paper towel over it to prevent it from drying out.

What Goes Well With Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti Bolognese is a rich and hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments, which can elevate the meal and create a balanced dining experience. Here are a few ideas for what goes well with this comforting Italian classic:

1. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is perhaps the most iconic side to serve with spaghetti. The buttery, garlicky flavor and crunchy texture contrast beautifully with the soft, savory pasta. You can make your own by spreading a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and parsley on a baguette or any other bread, then baking until golden and crispy.

2. Green Salad

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works wonders to balance the richness of the Bolognese. The acidity from the dressing cuts through the heaviness of the sauce, providing a refreshing contrast. Try using mixed greens, arugula, or spinach, along with some cherry tomatoes and cucumber for added crunch.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or roasted carrots, make for a flavorful and healthy side dish that complements the flavors of the Bolognese. Roasting enhances the natural sweetness and depth of the vegetables, creating a contrast to the savory sauce.

4. Wine Pairings

When it comes to pairing wine with spaghetti Bolognese, a medium to full-bodied red wine is always a great choice. Wines such as Chianti, Merlot, or Sangiovese pair beautifully with the rich, meaty flavors of the Bolognese. The tannins in the wine help to balance the sauce’s acidity while enhancing its savory taste.

5. Grated Parmesan Or Pecorino

A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese over the top of your Bolognese is a must. The sharp, salty flavors of the cheese complement the richness of the sauce, while the texture adds an extra element of luxury to each bite.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese is a dish that can be customized in so many ways, ensuring there’s always room for creativity while maintaining its essence. Whether you prefer it with added vegetables, lean meats, or a creamy twist, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this classic.

Storing leftovers properly ensures that you can savor it again later, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. And when it comes to pairing sides, options like garlic bread, green salads, or roasted vegetables can elevate the meal even further. With these tips and variations, your Spaghetti Bolognese will never feel repetitive-each version brings something new to the table!.

FAQs

What Makes Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe Unique?

Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese recipe stands out due to its balanced and rich flavors. It combines a mix of beef and pork mince for added depth, with a slow-cooked tomato sauce that includes wine, garlic, and herbs, resulting in a comforting and hearty dish.

Can I Substitute The Pork Mince In Mary Berry’s Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the pork mince with additional beef mince if you prefer a beef-only version. Alternatively, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter option, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese?

The total cooking time for Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese is approximately 1 hour. This includes around 15-20 minutes of preparation and 40-45 minutes of simmering to allow the flavors to develop.

What Type Of Pasta Is Best To Serve With Mary Berry’s Bolognese Sauce?

The traditional pasta pairing for Bolognese sauce is spaghetti, but you can also serve it with other pasta types like tagliatelle, pappardelle, or fusilli. The key is to choose a pasta that can hold the rich sauce.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare Mary Berry’s Bolognese sauce a day in advance. In fact, the sauce often tastes even better after sitting overnight, as the flavors have more time to meld. Simply reheat the sauce and cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Is It Possible To Freeze Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese Sauce?

Absolutely!

Mary Berry’s Bolognese sauce freezes well. Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What Is The Secret To A Rich And Flavorful Bolognese Sauce In Mary Berry’s Recipe?

The secret lies in the slow cooking process and the use of quality ingredients like red wine, garlic, and herbs. Mary Berry also recommends simmering the sauce gently to allow the flavors to develop and deepen, creating a rich and aromatic sauce.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe Without Wine?

Yes, if you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with beef broth or a combination of red wine vinegar and water. This will still provide a flavorful base for the sauce, though it may not have the same depth as using wine.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe Spicier?

To add some heat to the dish, you can incorporate crushed red pepper flakes, chopped fresh chili, or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the sauce. Adjust the amount according to your preferred spice level.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe Vegetarian?

Yes, Mary Berry’s Spaghetti Bolognese can be adapted into a vegetarian dish by using plant-based mince, such as lentils, mushrooms, or store-bought meat alternatives. Ensure you adjust the seasoning and herbs to maintain a rich flavor profile.