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–+ servings
Pumpkin Beef Bolognese

Hearty Pumpkin Beef Bolognese for Cozy Nights In

This comforting Pumpkin Beef Bolognese is a unique twist on a classic dish, perfect for cozy nights in.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces pasta Use your favorite type like spaghetti or penne.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Essential cooking fat for sautéing.
  • 1 medium shallot Finely chopped.
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced.
  • 1 stalk celery Chopped.
  • 2 cups diced pumpkin Hokkaido or red kuri squash recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon fennel Unique floral flavor.
  • 1 pound ground beef Can substitute with ground pork or chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
  • 1 pinch chili flakes Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 cups beef broth Can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth.
  • 1 leaf bay leaf Remove before serving.
  • 1 can pureed tomatoes 15 ounces.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste Optional.
  • whipped ricotta Optional, for serving.

Equipment

  • large saucepan or Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped shallot, minced garlic, and chopped celery. Cook for 5 minutes until shallots are translucent.
  2. Add diced pumpkin and sauté for another 5 minutes until it starts to soften.
  3. Mix in fennel and continue to cook for 3 minutes.
  4. Increase heat and add ground beef. Cook for about 10 minutes until browned.
  5. Stir in dried herbs, chili flakes, smoked paprika, then add beef broth and bay leaf. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  6. Add pureed tomatoes and tomato paste, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes.
  7. Cook pasta according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
  8. Stir cooked pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Serve topped with whipped ricotta and additional chili flakes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 6000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best flavors, let the sauce simmer longer. Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.

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