Savory Ground Beef and Mushroom Bolognese for the Perfect Pasta Night
A twist on the classic Bolognese, this version combines the rich flavor of Riverbend Cattle Company’s Ground Beef with earthy mushrooms for a savory, satisfying sauce that will elevate your pasta night.
Ingredients:
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1 lb Riverbend Cattle Company Ground Beef
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
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1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
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1/4 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp dried basil
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1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream (for a creamy touch)
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Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
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1 lb pasta (tagliatelle, pappardelle, or spaghetti work best)
Instructions:
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Cook the Ground Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Riverbend Cattle Company Ground Beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for another 4-5 minutes, until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender.
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Make the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste, followed by the crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
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Finish the Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the milk or cream for a rich, velvety texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
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Prepare the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
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Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly into the Bolognese sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
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Serve: Serve the pasta hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
This Savory Ground Beef and Mushroom Bolognese is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for any pasta lover. The combination of Riverbend Cattle Company’s premium ground beef and earthy mushrooms makes this Bolognese rich and satisfying. Enjoy with a glass of red wine for the ultimate pasta night experience!
