Creamy Beef Bolognese with Roasted Peppers
If you’re searching for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance, look no further than Creamy Beef Bolognese with Roasted Peppers. This recipe takes the classic Bolognese sauce and elevates it with the smoky sweetness of roasted peppers and the richness of cream. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Prepping the Vegetables and Beef
Start by chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Have the ground beef ready and within reach.
Gathering and Measuring Ingredients
Measure out all the ingredients beforehand to make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.
Cooking the Beef Bolognese
Browning the Beef
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Adding Aromatics and Spices
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste, oregano, and basil, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
Preparing the Roasted Peppers
Roasting the Peppers
To roast the peppers, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are charred and blistered.
Peeling and Slicing the Peppers
Once roasted, transfer the peppers to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let them steam for about 10 minutes, then peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and slice them into thin strips.
Combining the Ingredients
Mixing the Roasted Peppers into the Bolognese
Add the sliced roasted peppers to the skillet with the beef mixture. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine.
Adding Cream for Richness
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Simmering the Sauce
Ideal Simmering Time and Tips
Let the Bolognese sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavors will develop. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Best Pasta Types to Pair with Bolognese
Serve the creamy beef Bolognese over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or rigatoni. The sauce also pairs well with gnocchi or pappardelle.
Garnish Ideas
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Variations and Tips
Substituting Meats
You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, pork, or a combination of meats for a different flavor profile.
Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition
Consider adding chopped carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the sauce for added texture and nutrition.
Storage and Reheating
Proper Storage Methods
Store any leftover Bolognese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Tips to Maintain Flavor and Texture
Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Health Benefits
Nutritional Benefits of Beef and Peppers
Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins. Red bell peppers are high in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber.
Healthier Ingredient Alternatives
For a healthier version, use lean ground beef or ground turkey, and substitute heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative like half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
Conclusion
Creamy Beef Bolognese with Roasted Peppers is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s sure to impress. The combination of tender beef, smoky roasted peppers, and rich cream creates a sauce that’s both comforting and elegant. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a gourmet meal right at home!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can make the Bolognese sauce up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
How do I roast peppers on the stovetop? To roast peppers on the stovetop, place them directly on the flame of a gas burner, turning with tongs until the skin is charred. Then, peel and slice as directed.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner version of this dish.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat the Bolognese sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions.
Can I freeze this Bolognese sauce? Yes, you can freeze the sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Creamy Beef Bolognese with Roasted Peppers
If you're searching for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a touch of elegance, look no further than Creamy Beef Bolognese with Roasted Peppers. This recipe takes the classic Bolognese sauce and elevates it with the smoky sweetness of roasted peppers and the richness of cream. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 9 ounces pasta
- 1.1 pounds ground beef
- 1 jar (290 g/10 oz) roasted bell peppers drained
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 5.5 ounces grated cheddar
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- grated Parmesan for serving
- fresh thyme for serving (optional)
Instructions
Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling generously salted water, until al dente, about 1 minute less than package directions (pasta will finish cooking in the sauce).
In a large pot, heat olive oil over low heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 2 minutes. Add beef, cook over medium heat, break up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Add spices, fry until cooked through and browned. Stir in roasted peppers. Pour broth and crushed tomatoes, add tomato paste. Cover and cook for 10 minutes.
Add cream, bring to a boil and toss with pasta. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Remove from the heat. Add cheddar, stir until the cheese is melted.
Serve immediately with grated Parmesan and fresh thyme. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 751