Soul Macaroni Bolognese

Looking for an easy, comforting weeknight dish? Here’s a twist on a classic Italian dish featuring elbow macaroni tossed in a hearty beef sauce with smoked paprika, herbs, and fresh basil. Easy, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.

Classic Italian meat sauce with a soulful kick of smoked paprika and fresh basil.

For the Pasta

• 16 oz elbow macaroni

• Salt for boiling

For the Bolognese Sauce

• 1 lb ground beef (or half beef/half turkey if preferred)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 1 small carrot, finely diced

• 1 celery stalk, finely diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 Tbsp olive oil

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 2 Tbsp tomato paste

• 1 cup beef broth (or water)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp sugar (optional — balances acidity)

• ½–1 tsp salt, to taste

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ¼ cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional but makes it luxurious)

• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (plus more for garnish)

Instructions

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente.

• Drain, lightly toss with a bit of olive oil, and set aside.

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté 5–7 minutes until softened.

• Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.

• Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat.

• Add tomato paste, smoked paprika, oregano, and thyme. Stir 1 minute.

• Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well.

• Add salt, pepper, and sugar if using.

• Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until thick and rich.

• Stir in heavy cream for smoothness (optional) and fold in fresh basil.

• Add the cooked macaroni directly into the sauce.

• Stir until every noodle is coated and glossy.

Serving Suggestion

Top with:

• Fresh basil

• Grated Parmesan

• A pinch of smoked paprika for color and soul

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Hi, I’m Regina of The Faithful Feast. I'm also a writer and catering business owner. I live in the Buckeye State with my wonderful family, where our weekends are often filled with football games and faith-filled conversations. I’m passionate about encouraging women to notice God’s goodness in everyday life, especially over a cozy cup of tea. Whether I’m sharing a soul-warming recipe or writing words that encourage you, my heart is to inspire you to find joy and purpose right where you are.