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Creamy Pumpkin Bolognese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 99 reviews

A hearty and comforting Pumpkin Bolognese recipe that combines the rich flavors of ground meat with smooth pumpkin purée and tomatoes, simmered slowly to develop a thick, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner and a creative twist on traditional Bolognese.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup pumpkin purée
  • 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
  • 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, finely diced
  • 1 celery stalk, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
  • 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Cook the meat: Add the ground meat to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. This will take around 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks.
  3. Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Deglaze the pan: Pour in the red wine if using, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer until the liquid reduces by half, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add pumpkin and tomatoes: Stir in the pumpkin purée and crushed tomatoes, mixing well. Pour in the broth to thin the sauce slightly and bring it to a gentle simmer.
  6. Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Serve: Spoon the Pumpkin Bolognese over pasta or your preferred base. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired and serve hot.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • For a vegetarian option, replace the ground meat with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms.
  • If you prefer a spicier sauce, add red pepper flakes along with the dried herbs.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • This sauce pairs well with any type of pasta, polenta, or even roasted vegetables.

Keywords: Pumpkin Bolognese, pumpkin sauce, ground meat sauce, fall recipes, Italian dinner, pumpkin purée recipe

Find it online: https://recipeswithria.com/creamy-pumpkin-bolognese-recipe/