Spaghetti alla Bolognese
Spaghetti alla Bolognese (Creamy Variation) is a rich and comforting Italian pasta dish, traditionally from Bologna, featuring a meat-based sauce enriched with cream or béchamel. The classic ragù alla bolognese is simmered slowly with ground beef, pork, soffritto (onion, carrot, celery), tomatoes, wine, and milk, then finished with a touch of cream for a velvety texture. It's typically served with tagliatelle or spaghetti, making it a hearty and beloved staple.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in carbohydrates from the pasta and contains moderate to high fat from the meat and cream, with a good amount of protein from the ground meat. Key nutrients include iron, B vitamins, and calcium if dairy is used, with a rough calorie ballpark of 600-800 calories per generous serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 45 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
| Vitamin A | 300 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.5 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 250 mg |
| Zinc | 4 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, the creamy variation is a modern twist on the traditional ragù, which historically used milk or cream to tenderize the meat and balance acidity, reflecting Bologna's reputation as 'La Grassa' (The Fat One) for its rich cuisine. Nutritionally, the slow-cooked sauce enhances nutrient absorption, and the combination of protein and fats helps promote satiety.
