🍝 Family
Veggie-Packed Spaghetti Bolognese
By Emma Whitfield · Pregnancy & Baby Writer
The archetypal "everyone eats the same thing" family dinner — mince, tomatoes and finely grated vegetables that disappear into the sauce, spooned over spaghetti for the whole table.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 celery stick, finely chopped
- 500g beef or turkey mince
- 2 x 400g tins chopped tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato purée
- 400g spaghetti
Method
- Soften the onion, carrot and celery in the olive oil for 8 minutes.
- Add the mince and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato purée, and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the spaghetti according to packet instructions.
- Serve the sauce over the spaghetti, letting adults season further at the table.
Tips
- Freezes excellently — batch-cook a double quantity and freeze half in portions.
- For younger toddlers, chop the spaghetti with scissors on their plate rather than serving it long.
Questions about this recipe
Is veggie-packed spaghetti bolognese suitable from all ages (adjust seasoning at the table)?
Yes — this recipe is designed for all ages (adjust seasoning at the table). As always, cut or shape food appropriately for your child’s age and supervise mealtimes.
Does this recipe contain common allergens?
Yes: Gluten (spaghetti — swap for gluten-free). If introducing any of these to your baby for the first time, offer them alone in a small amount first, not combined with other new foods.
Can I freeze veggie-packed spaghetti bolognese?
Yes, this recipe freezes well — see the tips below for the best way to portion and reheat it.
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This is general information, not medical or dietary advice — every baby and child is different. For allergy concerns, a family history of allergies, or anything you're unsure about, speak to your health visitor, GP or a registered dietitian before introducing new foods. Reviewed July 2026.