Name: Pumpkin Beef Bolognese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 14 ounces pasta; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 shallots – finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves – minced; 1 celery stalk – finely chopped; 4 cups diced pumpkin – with skin, seeded (like hokkaido pumpkin/red kuri squash); 1 small or ½ large fennel bulb – trimmed and diced; 1.5 pounds ground beef; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried sage; 1 tsp dried marjoram; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp chili flakes; salt – to taste; black pepper – to taste; 1 ¾ cups beef broth – or chicken or vegetable broth; 1 bay leaf; 3 cups puréed tomatoes; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 5 tbsp ricotta; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp grated parmesan; salt – to taste; black pepper – to taste

Looking for a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion? Look no further than Pumpkin Beef Bolognese! This hearty and flavorful dish is not only easy to make but will also impress your family and friends with its unique twist on a classic bolognese sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Rich and savory flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.
Quick and simple prep time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Great for meal prep and can be easily reheated for leftovers.

Ingredient Notes:

Pasta: Any type of pasta works well for this recipe.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and beef.
Shallots, garlic, celery, pumpkin, fennel, ground beef: These ingredients add depth and texture to the dish.
Various dried herbs and spices: Thyme, sage, marjoram, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper for seasoning.
Beef broth, bay leaf, puréed tomatoes, tomato paste: These ingredients create a rich and flavorful sauce.
Fresh thyme and chili flakes for serving.
Optional whipped ricotta: Adds a creamy and tangy element to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cook pasta according to package instructions.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté shallots, garlic, and celery until fragrant.
Add diced pumpkin, fennel, and ground beef, cooking until beef is browned.
Stir in dried herbs, spices, salt, and pepper.
Pour in broth, bay leaf, puréed tomatoes, and tomato paste, simmering until sauce thickens.
Serve over cooked pasta with fresh thyme, chili flakes, and whipped ricotta if desired.

Helpful Tips:

Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even cooking.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Swap pumpkin for butternut squash or sweet potato for a different flavor profile.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Allow the flavors to meld together by simmering the sauce for at least 30 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy Pumpkin Beef Bolognese with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, and a glass of red wine for a cozy and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store, cool the dish completely before transferring to an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to revive the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Yes, adjust the quantities to taste.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, substitute lentils or mushrooms for the beef.

Conclusion:

Warm up your kitchen and your taste buds with this comforting Pumpkin Beef Bolognese recipe. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish is sure to please. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!