Cheesy Spaghetti Bolognese

Cheesy Spaghetti Bolognese – A Comfort Food Classic with a Cheesy Twist

There are few dishes that embody true comfort quite like a warm plate of spaghetti bolognese. It’s hearty, flavorful, and has a way of bringing people together around the dinner table. But when you add a layer of gooey, golden-brown mozzarella cheese? You take this Italian-inspired favorite to an entirely new level of deliciousness.

This Cheesy Spaghetti Bolognese recipe combines the rich, slow-simmered tomato and beef sauce of traditional bolognese with the irresistible melt of mozzarella. It’s the perfect weeknight meal when you’re craving something hearty yet simple enough to whip up without fuss.

Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner, impressing guests, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A comforting twist on a classic Italian dish
Easy-to-follow steps, great for home cooks of all levels
Family-friendly and perfect for leftovers
Extra cheesy topping that melts into every bite

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Spaghetti – classic pasta base that holds the sauce beautifully.
  • Ground beef – the hearty protein that gives the sauce its richness.
  • Onion & garlic – essential aromatics for depth of flavor.
  • Crushed tomatoes & tomato sauce – the soul of the bolognese.
  • Herbs & spices – oregano, basil, and a hint of red pepper flakes for warmth.
  • Mozzarella cheese – melted on top for that perfect cheesy finish.
  • Fresh parsley – adds a touch of freshness at the end.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta – Boil spaghetti until al dente, then set aside.
  2. Brown the beef – Sauté ground beef in olive oil, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess grease.
  3. Build the flavor – Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
  4. Simmer the sauce – Stir in tomatoes, sauce, herbs, and spices. Let it gently simmer for 30–60 minutes for the best flavor.
  5. Assemble the dish – Serve spaghetti topped with bolognese, sprinkle mozzarella, and broil briefly until cheese is bubbly.
  6. Finish with freshness – Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Chef Tips & Variations

  • Make it creamier: Add a splash of heavy cream or whole milk to the sauce for a velvety texture.
  • Go veggie: Swap ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat alternatives.
  • Extra cheesy version: Mix Parmesan into the sauce for double the cheesy goodness.
  • Make ahead: The bolognese sauce tastes even better the next day—perfect for meal prep.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this cheesy spaghetti bolognese with a crisp green salad, some garlic bread, and a glass of red wine for the ultimate Italian-inspired feast.

Cheesy Spaghetti Bolognese
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Cheesy Spaghetti Bolognese

Recipe by Kel
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

45

minutes
Calories

600 (estimated))

kcal

Ingredients


  • 1 pound spaghetti

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes

  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Directions

  • Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

  • While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.

  • Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally.

  • To serve, place spaghetti on a plate, top with the bolognese sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.

  • Place under a broiler for a minute or two to melt and brown the cheese.

  • Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the sauce along with the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.

  • Feel free to add other vegetables to the sauce, such as chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers.

  • This dish can be made ahead of time. Store the sauce and pasta separately in the refrigerator, then reheat when ready to serve.