Spaghetti Bolognese is a well-loved dish worldwide, but adding a creamy twist elevates this classic to new heights. This spaghetti Bolognese creamy recipe combines the hearty flavors of a traditional Bolognese sauce with the velvety richness of cream. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees satisfaction for the entire family.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to prepare a creamy Bolognese sauce step-by-step, discover tips for variations, and explore serving ideas that complement this indulgent dish.

Why Choose Creamy Spaghetti Bolognese?

Adding cream to the traditional Bolognese sauce enhances its flavor and texture, making it smoother and more decadent. This variation is perfect for anyone looking for comfort food with a luxurious twist. Unlike classic Bolognese, which relies solely on tomatoes and meat, the creamy version adds depth, balancing tangy tomatoes with the richness of heavy cream.

For more insights into the origins of traditional Bolognese, check out this guide to authentic Italian sauces.

Ingredients for Creamy Spaghetti Bolognese

Essential Ingredients

To make this spaghetti Bolognese creamy recipe, you’ll need the following:

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• ½ cup carrots, diced
• 1 lb Italian sausage (or substitute with ground turkey)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 28 oz San Marzano tomatoes, peeled
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 oz spaghetti
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Optional Additions

• Vegetarian alternative: Substitute meat with mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian option.

Creamy Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe

Step-by-step guide to creating a rich and creamy Italian favorite!

🍝Ingredients

• 400g spaghetti
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 500g ground beef
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

✍️Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Stir in the grated carrot and chopped celery. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add the red wine (if using) and simmer until reduced by half.
5. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and mix well to create a creamy texture. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
8. Combine the spaghetti with the creamy sauce, mixing well to coat evenly.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

☕️Tips for Creamy Bolognese

• Simmer the sauce for longer if time allows to deepen the flavors.
• Use fresh cream for the best texture and taste.
• For added flavor, sprinkle nutmeg into the cream before mixing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Base for Your Creamy Sauce

Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots, sautéing until they’re softened. This forms the soffritto, a traditional Italian base that builds flavor for the sauce.

2. Cook the Meat

Add the Italian sausage and ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break up the meat into smaller pieces as it browns. Cook for 5–7 minutes or until fully browned.

3. Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Once the meat is cooked, stir in the minced garlic and cook for one minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn. Pour in the San Marzano tomatoes and use a spoon to crush them into smaller chunks. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.

4. Incorporate the Cream

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, then simmer for another 5–10 minutes to thicken the sauce.

5. Cook and Combine the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Add the spaghetti directly to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Spaghetti Bolognese

• Use fresh ingredients: San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil elevate the dish.
• Don’t skip the simmering step: Allowing the sauce to simmer enhances its depth of flavor.
• Balance the cream: Too much cream can overpower the dish, so use it sparingly.

For additional pasta tips, visit Pasta Cooking Tips for Beginners.

Variations to Try

1. Vegetarian Creamy Bolognese

Replace the meat with diced mushrooms or lentils. The mushrooms add an earthy flavor, while lentils provide a hearty texture.

2. Gluten-Free Option

Substitute traditional spaghetti with gluten-free pasta. Ensure the sauce remains thick to cling to the noodles.

3. Spicy Bolognese

Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced chili pepper for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this spaghetti Bolognese creamy recipe with the following side dishes:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the sauce.
• Caprese Salad: A light and refreshing complement to the rich pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Adds a healthy balance to the meal.

Serve with a glass of medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti, for the ultimate Italian dining experience.

FAQs About Creamy Spaghetti Bolognese

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.

2. What’s the best pasta for this dish?

While spaghetti is traditional, other pasta shapes like fettuccine, tagliatelle, or penne work well with creamy sauces.

3. Can I freeze the sauce?

Absolutely! Freeze the sauce in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. How can I make the sauce lighter?

Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the sauce in individual portions. Avoid freezing the pasta, as it can become mushy.

Reheating

Reheat the sauce on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to maintain its creamy texture.

Creative Ways to Use Leftover Sauce

• Baked Ziti: Combine the sauce with ziti pasta, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
• Stuffed Peppers: Use the sauce as a filling for bell peppers, then bake.
• Lasagna: Layer the sauce with lasagna sheets, béchamel, and cheese.

For more creative Italian recipes, explore Comfort Food Classics.

Conclusion

This spaghetti Bolognese creamy recipe takes the classic dish to a new level of indulgence. By adding cream to the traditional Bolognese sauce, you create a rich, velvety texture that’s perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. Whether you follow the original recipe or try one of the suggested variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.