Pappardelle with Ground Beef and Mushroom Tomato Sauce

Are you looking for a delicious and hearty pasta dish to satisfy your cravings? Look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for Pappardelle with Ground Beef and Mushroom Tomato Sauce. This dish combines tender strips of homemade pappardelle pasta with a rich and flavorful sauce made from ground beef and mushrooms simmered in a tomato base. It’s a perfect meal for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family. Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
8 ounces pappardelle pasta
1 cup chopped mushrooms
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Pappardelle Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pappardelle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small crumbles with a wooden spoon.

Step 3: Add the Mushrooms

Add the chopped mushrooms to the skillet with the ground beef. Continue cooking until the mushrooms are tender and slightly browned, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pappardelle pasta to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the Pappardelle with Ground Beef and Mushroom Tomato Sauce to serving plates or bowls. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations:

This recipe can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegetarian Option:

Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat substitutes or a combination of chopped vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Herb Infusion:

Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme to the sauce for an extra layer of freshness and aroma.

Spicy Twist:

If you enjoy a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Tips:

For a homemade touch, consider making your own pappardelle pasta from scratch. It’s easier than you might think and adds a special touch to the dish.
If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the diced tomatoes before adding them to the skillet.
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Conclusion:

Pappardelle with Ground Beef and Mushroom Tomato Sauce is a delightful pasta dish that will satisfy your hunger and please your taste buds. The combination of tender pappardelle pasta with a rich, meaty sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your apron and get ready to indulge in a bowl of comfort and deliciousness!

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While pappardelle works best with this recipe, you can substitute it with other wide and flat pasta like tagliatelle or fettuccine.

2. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. The flavors will still work well with the other ingredients in the dish.

4. Can I add wine to the sauce?

If you enjoy cooking with wine, feel free to add a splash of red wine to the sauce while simmering. It will add depth and complexity to the flavors.

5. How can I make the dish less spicy?

If you’re sensitive to spice, simply omit the red pepper flakes from the recipe. You can always add a pinch of black pepper for a milder kick.

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to get cooking and savor the deliciousness of Pappardelle with Ground Beef and Mushroom Tomato Sauce. Bon appétit!