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Pumpkin Beef Bolognese

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Pumpkin Beef Bolognese is a comforting twist on the classic Italian meat sauce, combining savory ground beef, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables with creamy pumpkin puree. The result is a velvety, slightly sweet sauce that pairs perfectly with hearty pasta.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrot, finely diced
  • 1 celery stalk, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 12 oz pasta of choice
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Add crushed tomatoes, pumpkin puree, beef broth, oregano, basil, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
  6. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 25–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
  7. Stir in milk or heavy cream during the final 5 minutes.
  8. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water before draining.
  9. Toss pasta with sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen.
  10. Serve topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.

Notes

  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • For extra richness, use half beef and half Italian sausage.
  • Simmer longer for a thicker, deeper-flavored sauce.
  • Store sauce in refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze sauce (without pasta) for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/pumpkin-beef-bolognese/