Ultimate Beef and Bacon Spaghetti Bolognese

Once the bacon is golden, add the beef mince and cook until browned, 5-6 mins. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks, then drain and discard any excess fat. Season with pepper. IMPORTANT: Wash your hands and equipment after handling raw mince. The mince is cooked when no longer pink in the middle. Stir in half the garlic and cook for 1 min, then add the sugar and water for the sauce (see ingredients for both amounts), passata and red wine jus paste.

Stir together well, then bring the Bolognese to the boil and simmer until thickened, 15-20 mins. TIP: Add a splash of water if it gets too thick. Meanwhile, bring a large saucepan of water to the boil with 1/2 tsp salt for the pasta. Halve the baby plum tomatoes. Put the balsamic vinegar and olive oil for the dressing (see ingredients for amount) into a medium bowl, then season with salt and pepper. Add the tomatoes to the dressing, stir to combine, then set aside

Halve the ciabatta and place on a baking tray, cut-side up. Put the olive oil for the garlic bread (see ingredients for amount), remaining garlic and half the parmesan into a small bowl and mix together. Spread the cheesy mixture on top of the ciabatta, then set aside. Add the spaghetti to the pan of boiling water and bring back to the boil. Cook until tender, 8 mins. Once cooked, drain in a colander and pop back in the pan. Drizzle with oil and stir through to stop it sticking together.

While the pasta cooks, bake the ciabatta on the top shelf of your oven until the cheese is golden, 5-6 mins. Once the Bolognese has thickened, taste and season with salt and pepper if needed. When ready, add the cooked spaghetti to the Bolognese pan and toss to coat. TIP: Add a splash of water if it's a little thick.