Craving a pasta dish that's both comforting and exciting? Look no further than this Creamy Red Spaghetti with Meat and Mushrooms – a rich and flavorful recipe inspired by the vibrant culinary traditions of Jauja. Forget bland tomato sauces; this recipe elevates the classic spaghetti with a luscious cream sauce, perfectly complementing the savory depth of tender meat and earthy mushrooms. The creamy texture beautifully coats each strand of pasta, creating a truly decadent experience. This isn't your average spaghetti dinner; it's a culinary journey.
Prepare yourself for a taste sensation as we guide you through each step of creating this unforgettable dish. From expertly browning the meat to achieving the perfect creamy consistency, we'll ensure your Creamy Red Spaghetti is a resounding success. Ready to dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions? Let's get cooking!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Blender
- Frying pan
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
Ingredients
- Pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or your choice): 200g
- Ground beef: 600g
- Breadcrumbs (from half a day-old roll or sliced bread)
- Milk
- Salt
- Pepper
- Onion: 1/2
- Garlic cloves: 2
- Sliced mushrooms
- Ripe tomatoes: 600g
- Tomato puree: 1 can (25g)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Olive oil
- Oregano
- Dried basil
- Cream
- Grated cheese (melting type)
- Chicken broth (or salt)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Meat and Sauce Base
- Hydrate the bread with milk. Once hydrated, add it to the ground beef, salt, and pepper. Mix well and reserve.
- Blend raw tomatoes with a little water until smooth.
- In a pan, melt butter and olive oil. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes over medium heat.
- Add chopped garlic, oregano, and basil. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the blended tomatoes and simmer for 5 minutes over medium heat.
- Add tomato puree, stir, add salt, and reduce heat to medium-low. Let the flavors integrate for about 30 minutes. Add Parmesan cheese (optional).
- In a hot pan with little oil, fry the ground beef. Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook constantly, breaking down the meat evenly over medium-high heat.
- Add sliced mushrooms and salt. Fry with the meat.
Step 2. Cook the Pasta and Combine Ingredients
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- Add warmed tomato sauce, cream, and stir. Cook for 6-10 minutes over medium-high heat.
- Add pasta, stir well, and add reserved pasta water if needed to prevent drying out. Rectify seasoning with salt or chicken bouillon powder.
Step 3. Finish and Serve
- Add cheese, cover, and let melt.
- Serve with a fresh salad.
Read more: Quick & Easy Pantry Mexican Rice with Rotel
Tips
- Add Parmesan cheese to the sauce for extra flavor (optional).
- Add a little pasta water if the pasta gets too dry.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 1800-2200
- Fat: 80-110g
- Carbs: 150-200g
- Protein: 70-90g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground beef, pork, or even Italian sausage would work well. Adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the type of meat you choose.
2. What kind of mushrooms are best for this recipe?
Cremini or button mushrooms are classic choices and readily available. However, feel free to experiment with other types like shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a different flavor profile.
This Creamy Red Spaghetti with Meat and Mushrooms is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Jauja, offering a comforting yet sophisticated dining experience. The recipe's blend of textures and flavors is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary journey!