Pasta Bolognese

Cook spaghetti or pasta of choice according to package instructions.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet and fry the minced bacon until the flavor oozes into the oil. Add the ground beef and stir constantly so that meat cooks evenly. Add the red sauce and ketchup, and allow to cook for another 15 minutes or until sauce slightly thickens. Set aside some pasley for garnish; throw in the remaining to the sauce. Season with salt and pepper.

Put drained pasta in a shallow serving platter. Pour meat sauce and top with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.

Pasta-cooking tips:  
    •    For cooking pasta, any big pot will do. But if pasta's a regular on your home menu, check your favorite department store for a pasta pot. It's a big cooking vessel with a strainer fitted to the pot to make it easier to drain water once the pasta's cooked.