Pasta with Minced Beef in Creamy Sauce

This delightful dish combines the hearty flavors of minced beef, the richness of a creamy parmesan sauce, and the tang of dry red wine, resulting in a pasta meal that’s both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for weeknight meals or casual gatherings.

A Brief History

Pasta dishes have long been a staple in Italian cuisine, with endless variations and regional specialties. The combination of pasta with a creamy sauce has its roots in traditional Italian cooking, where rich dairy products, such as butter and cheese, elevate the pasta. Ground beef, often used in Bolognese sauce, brings a hearty, meaty element, while the addition of red wine adds depth to the dish. This recipe borrows from these culinary traditions, blending the richness of dairy with robust beef and fresh vegetables for a deliciously satisfying meal.

Ingredients

  • Olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 200 g (7 oz) pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your choice)
  • 1 onion (chopped)
  • 450 g (16 oz) ground beef
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 100 ml (3.5 fl oz) dry red wine
  • 2 tomatoes (diced)
  • 1 leek (sliced)
  • 40 g (1.4 oz) butter
  • 1 tbsp flour
  • 250 ml (8.8 fl oz) milk
  • 40 g (1.4 oz) parmesan cheese (grated)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your preferred pasta (penne, spaghetti, or another variety) and cook according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain the pasta, but reserve a little pasta water for later in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency. Set the pasta aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables and Beef

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook the beef until it is evenly browned, ensuring all moisture evaporates so the meat develops a slight crust. This should take about 7-8 minutes. Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

3. Deglaze with Red Wine

Pour the dry red wine into the skillet, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to simmer for 3-4 minutes, reducing slightly. This process adds depth and richness to the sauce, enhancing the flavor of the beef.

4. Add Tomatoes and Leek

Next, add the diced tomatoes and sliced leek to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the vegetables to cook down. Season with a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and meld with the beef.

5. Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

While the beef mixture simmers, begin the creamy sauce in a separate small saucepan. Over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to foam. Then, stir in the flour, whisking constantly to create a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden and loses the raw flour taste.

Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. Once the sauce reaches a smooth, creamy consistency, stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Add a dash of nutmeg for warmth, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Combine the Sauce and Beef Mixture

Once the parmesan sauce is ready, pour it over the beef, tomato, and leek mixture. Stir everything together, ensuring the creamy sauce evenly coats the beef and vegetables. If the sauce seems too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a splash of the reserved pasta water.

7. Add the Pasta and Serve

Finally, toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the beef and creamy sauce. Gently mix until the pasta is thoroughly coated with the sauce, absorbing all the rich flavors. If desired, you can garnish with extra parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for added freshness.

Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy a flavorful, hearty meal that’s sure to please!

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 4)

  • Calories: 590 kcal
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg

This comforting pasta with minced beef in a creamy sauce is a perfect balance of richness and freshness, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a quick yet indulgent meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy.