Spaghetti Bolognese
Mains Italian

Spaghetti Bolognese

A weeknight classic shown three ways — from a quick store-cupboard version to a slow-cooked ragù with soffritto and red wine.

Serves2
Time35 min
Cost / serving£1.40
Nut-free

Make it your way

Pick a tier — the ingredients, method and cost update instantly.

Budget version

Value mince, tinned tomatoes and dried herbs — quick and cheap.

Per serving£1.40
Total cost£2.80
Time35 min
Spaghetti Bolognese
Servings

Ingredients for 2

  • 250 g value beef mince
  • 1 onion , diced
  • 1 clove garlic , crushed
  • 400 g tinned chopped tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp tomato purée
  • 1 tsp dried mixed herbs
  • 180 g dried spaghetti
  • salt and pepper , to taste

Method

  1. Fry the onion in a little oil over medium heat for 4 minutes until soft, then add the garlic for 1 minute.
  2. Add the mince, breaking it up, and brown for 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the tomato purée, tinned tomatoes and dried herbs, then simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Meanwhile cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water per the packet.
  5. Season the sauce, drain the pasta and serve.

The three ways, side by side

Budget
£1.40 / serving · 35 min

Value mince, tinned tomatoes and dried herbs — quick and cheap.

Better
£2.85 / serving · 55 min

Soffritto base, better mince and a splash of milk for a rounder sauce.

Ultimate
£6.10 / serving · 4 hr

A true ragù: pancetta, three meats, red wine and a slow three-hour cook.