Savory Pumpkin Beef Bolognese: A Cozy Dinner Delight

A delightful twist to the classic Italian favorite with a savory pumpkin beef bolognese that is perfect for cozy dinners.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the sauce

3 tbsp Olive Oil Essential for sautéing and infusing flavor.
2 Shallots Finely chopped; adds a touch of sweetness for depth.
3 Garlic Minced; enhances the aroma with robust flavor.
1 Celery Finely chopped; provides a crunchy texture and flavor foundation.
4 cups Pumpkin Diced; the star ingredient that adds sweetness and nutrition.
1 Fennel Small or ½ large, trimmed and diced; offers a bright, aromatic flavor.
1.5 pounds Ground Beef The core protein; can be swapped for ground pork or chicken.
1 tsp Dried Thyme Elevates the flavor profile with an earthy note.
1 tsp Dried Sage Lends a robust, aromatic richness.
1 tsp Dried Marjoram Complements the other herbs beautifully.
1 tsp Smoked Paprika Introduces a subtle smokiness.
0.5 tsp Chili Flakes Adds a hint of heat for a well-rounded flavor.
Salt & Black Pepper Season to taste for a perfect balance.

For the broth

1.75 cups Beef Broth Ensures the sauce remains rich and moist.
1 Bay Leaf Infuses a deeper complexity into the sauce.

For the base

3 cups Purée Tomatoes Creates a thick, rich base for the sauce.
1 tbsp Tomato Paste Intensifies the tomato flavor.

Optional garnishes

Fresh Thyme For a vibrant garnish that adds freshness.
5 tbsp Whipped Ricotta Optional; enriches with creamy goodness.

Equipment

large saucepan
Wooden spoon
pot for pasta

Method

Cooking Instructions

Heat the Olive Oil: Begin by heating 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Sauté the Aromatics: Add 2 finely chopped shallots, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 finely chopped celery stalk, sauté for about 5 minutes.
Add the Pumpkin and Fennel: Stir in 4 cups of diced pumpkin and cook for another 5 minutes, then add the diced fennel.
Brown the Ground Beef: Increase heat to high and add 1.5 pounds of ground beef, cooking for approximately 10 minutes.
Season and Simmer: Stir in herbs and spices, then pour in 1.75 cups of beef broth and add 1 bay leaf.
Incorporate Tomatoes: Add 3 cups of puréed tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, stirring until combined.
Cook the Pasta: In a separate pot, cook pasta until al dente, then drain.
Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta and top with the bolognese sauce, adding optional whipped ricotta and fresh thyme.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 8gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 8000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

Taste and adjust seasoning throughout. Prepare the sauce ahead of time for easy weeknight dinners.

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