Spaghetti Bolognese with Lean Ground Beef

Ingredients

• Whole wheat spaghetti 2 cups cooked
• Lean ground beef 5 oz
• Tomato sauce 1 cup
• Onion and garlic 1/4 cup
• Parmesan cheese 2 tbsp

Method

1. Prepare the ingredients. Start by finely chopping the onion and garlic. Measure out your tomato sauce and have your ground beef ready. If your spaghetti is not cooked yet, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
   Tip: Use a sharp knife for easier chopping and to avoid crushing the garlic.
2. Cook the onion and garlic. Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil (about 1 tablespoon). Once hot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
   Tip: Keep the heat moderate to avoid browning the garlic too quickly, which can make it bitter.
3. Brown the ground beef. Add the lean ground beef to the pan with the sautéed onion and garlic. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the beef is browned all over and no pink remains. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
   Tip: Drain excess fat if you see a lot in the pan to keep the sauce lean.
4. Add tomato sauce and simmer. Pour the tomato sauce into the pan with the browned beef mixture. Stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 8-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
   Tip: Cover the pan partially with a lid to reduce splatter but allow steam to escape.
5. Combine and serve. Place the cooked whole wheat spaghetti on a plate or bowl. Spoon the Bolognese sauce generously over the pasta. Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. Serve immediately while hot.
   Tip: Taste the sauce before serving and add a pinch of salt or pepper if needed.

Pro tips

• Use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta.
• For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers.