Description
Cheesy Spaghetti Bolognese Stack is a creative twist on the classic pasta dish, featuring savory spaghetti nests topped with rich Bolognese sauce and melted cheese. This visually stunning recipe is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, offering a delightful mix of comfort and elegance.
Ingredients
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or pork/sausage mix)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 2 cups tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
For the Pasta and Cheese:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bolognese Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned, and drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add tomato sauce, broth, and red wine (if using).
- Season with basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for 20-25 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook spaghetti until al dente per package instructions. Drain well.
- Assemble the Cheesy Stack:
- Preheat the broiler or oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Using a fork, twirl spaghetti into nests and arrange them on an oven-safe plate or dish.
- Spoon Bolognese sauce generously onto each nest.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Melt the Cheese:
- Broil or bake for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with garlic bread or salad.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground meat with mushrooms or plant-based alternatives.
- Use gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions.
- The Bolognese sauce can be made ahead for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
