Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a mouthwatering Italian classic? This Beef and Mushroom Bolognese is not just any pasta dish; it's a rich, hearty sauce that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! With tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious tomato base, this recipe is a symphony of flavors that comes together in just one hour. Perfect for cozy evenings or impressing guests, this Bolognese will transform your pasta game. Dive into the recipe and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz mushrooms, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping onions and mushrooms finely, and mincing garlic. Set aside.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and no pink remains, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Remove excess fat from the beef, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan. Add chopped onions and cook until they become translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and chopped mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for 5 minutes until mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to enhance its flavor and caramelize slightly.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes, add dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer the sauce for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water in case sauce needs thinning.
- Combine cooked spaghetti with the beef and mushroom bolognese sauce, tossing to ensure even coating.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional black pepper if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions, garlic, and mushrooms in advance. This way, you can focus on cooking without interruptions.
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: A heavy skillet or Dutch oven helps distribute heat evenly, preventing the sauce from sticking and ensuring perfect browning of the beef and mushrooms.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer for the full 30-35 minutes. This slow cooking time is essential for developing deep flavors and a rich texture.
- Reserve Pasta Water: When draining your spaghetti, don’t forget to save some pasta water. It can be a lifesaver for adjusting the sauce's consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Garnish Generously: Finish your dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
- Pair with a Side: Serve your Bolognese with a side salad or garlic bread to make the meal even more satisfying!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 525kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
