Name: Pumpkin Beef Bolognese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 14 oz pasta; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 shallots, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 celery stalk, finely chopped; 4 cups diced pumpkin with skin, seeded (like Hokkaido pumpkin or red kuri squash); 1 small or ½ large fennel bulb, trimmed and diced; 1 ½ lb ground beef; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried sage; 1 tsp dried marjoram; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp chili flakes; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 ¾ cup beef broth (or chicken or vegetable broth); 1 bay leaf; 3 cups puréed tomatoes; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 5 tbsp ricotta; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp grated parmesan; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Fresh thyme; Chili flakes

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking to cozy up with a twist on a classic meal, this Pumpkin Beef Bolognese Recipe is nothing short of magical. Combining the hearty richness of ground beef with the subtle sweetness and creaminess of pumpkin, it creates a sauce that’s bursting with layers of flavor and texture. This dish manages to be comfort food while feeling a little special and seasonal, perfect for those chilly evenings when you want something warm and satisfying but a little different from the usual pasta sauce. Trust me, once you try this combination, it will quickly become one of your favorites to make again and again.

A white bowl filled with short, thick curly pasta covered in a thick, reddish-brown meat sauce mixed with small pieces of orange carrots and green herbs. The sauce is chunky with ground meat and finely diced vegetables, spreading evenly over the pasta. A silver fork is placed inside the bowl on the right side, partially lifting a few pasta pieces. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pumpkin Beef Bolognese Recipe lies in its simplicity yet thoughtful selection of ingredients. Each component adds its own touch, building depth and richness in the sauce while keeping the dish balanced and fresh. From aromatic herbs to the vibrant pumpkin, these ingredients come together to create a vibrant dish that’s both hearty and wholesome.

14 oz pasta: Choose your favorite type, but something that holds sauce well like tagliatelle or pappardelle works perfectly.
3 tbsp olive oil: Adds a fruity, smooth base for sautéing vegetables and creating gentle heat.
2 shallots finely chopped: Bring a delicate sweetness and subtle onion flavor without overpowering.
3 garlic cloves minced: For that punch of warmth and aromatics that makes the sauce come alive.
1 celery stalk finely chopped: Adds a slight crunch and freshness to the layers of flavor.
4 cups diced pumpkin (with skin, seeded): Opt for a Hokkaido or red kuri squash for natural sweetness and creamy texture.
1 small or ½ large fennel bulb trimmed and diced: Gives a unique anise-like hint that elevates the sauce.
1 ½ lb ground beef: The hearty backbone of the sauce, adding richness and satisfying protein.
1 tsp dried thyme: Introduces earthiness and depth to the overall flavor profile.
1 tsp dried sage: Gives warmth and a slightly peppery note that complements the pumpkin.
1 tsp dried marjoram: Lightly floral, enhancing the savory notes.
1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds smoky warmth that balances the sweetness of the pumpkin beautifully.
½ tsp chili flakes: Provides a gentle heat to awaken the palate without overpowering.
Salt to taste: Essential for bringing all flavors together.
Black pepper to taste: Adds subtle bite and complexity.
1 ¾ cup beef broth (or chicken or vegetable broth): Creates a rich liquid base for slow simmering the sauce.
1 bay leaf: Imparts herbal depth during cooking.
3 cups puréed tomatoes: Gives the sauce its luscious body and tie-in to traditional Bolognese flavors.
1 tbsp tomato paste: Boosts tomato richness and adds a slight sweetness.
Fresh thyme for serving: A bright garnish to finish the dish.
Chili flakes for serving: For guests who want a little extra kick.
Whipped ricotta (optional): Mixing 5 tbsp ricotta with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp grated parmesan, salt, and pepper creates a creamy, dreamy topping.

How to Make Pumpkin Beef Bolognese Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large heavy-based saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add the finely chopped shallots, minced garlic, and celery, cooking gently for about 5 minutes. This slow sauté draws out their sweetness and builds a fragrant base. Next, stir in the diced pumpkin cubes and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently to keep things from sticking. Toss in the diced fennel and let it cook for 3 minutes more. These veggies melt into the sauce as it simmers, developing that subtly sweet and fresh flavor profile.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Turn the heat up to high and add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat into smaller chunks. Once it’s evenly distributed, reduce the heat back to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully cooked through, about 10 minutes. This step is crucial to the texture and heartiness of the dish, creating a rich meaty foundation for your Bolognese.

Step 3: Add Herbs, Spices, and Broth

Sprinkle in the dried thyme, sage, marjoram, chili flakes, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. These spices are what make the Pumpkin Beef Bolognese Recipe truly special, infusing it with layers of earthiness, warmth, and a gentle kick. Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaf. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle and the liquid to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Simmer

Stir in the puréed tomatoes and tomato paste, which give the sauce its rich, tangy body. Cover the pot and let the sauce simmer gently for another 10 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender and everything has melded into a luxurious, thick sauce. This slow simmering is what transforms the Pumpkin Beef Bolognese Recipe from good to unforgettable.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is finishing, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta until just al dente according to package instructions. This ensures a perfect bite that will soak up the sauce beautifully.

Step 6: Serve with Whipped Ricotta and Garnishes

Drain the pasta and plate it generously with the Pumpkin Beef Bolognese sauce. For an extra touch of indulgence, spoon some whipped ricotta on top, then scatter fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of chili flakes for color and a little punch. Now, it’s time to dig in and enjoy every comforting mouthful.

How to Serve Pumpkin Beef Bolognese Recipe

Pumpkin Beef Bolognese Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh thyme leaves add a pop of green and herbaceous brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce. Sprinkling a few chili flakes on top brings out the smoky paprika notes and adds a subtle warmth. And don’t skip the whipped ricotta if you have time—it adds a creamy, tangy finishing touch that takes every bite to the next level.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, which cuts through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is also excellent for mopping up every last bit of sauce. For a vegetable side, roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon provide freshness and balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Pumpkin Beef Bolognese Recipe over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes instead of pasta for a unique comfort option. You can also stuff the sauce inside hollowed-out roasted pumpkins for an autumnal centerpiece that’s sure to impress. Finally, layering the sauce with pasta in a baked casserole topped with parmesan and breadcrumbs makes a rustic baked pasta dish with great texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pumpkin Beef Bolognese Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. Just ensure the sauce is cooled completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

This recipe also freezes well. Portion the sauce separately from the pasta to maintain the best texture. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.

Reheating

Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if it feels too thick. Reheat pasta separately by dropping it into boiling water for a minute or microwaving covered with a splash of water to keep it moist. Then combine for serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of pork and beef work well in this recipe and can offer different flavor profiles while keeping that satisfying texture.

Is it necessary to leave the pumpkin skin on?

Using the skin on varieties like Hokkaido pumpkin or red kuri squash is beneficial because it cooks down to a soft texture and adds nutrients, but if you prefer, you can peel it before cooking for a smoother sauce.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based mince or lentils and use vegetable broth. The pumpkin and herbs will keep the sauce flavorful and hearty.

What pasta shape pairs best with Pumpkin Beef Bolognese Recipe?

Wide, flat pastas like pappardelle or tagliatelle work especially well because their large surface area holds the chunky sauce beautifully, but you can use any pasta you love.

How spicy is the Pumpkin Beef Bolognese Recipe?

The recipe has a gentle warmth from chili flakes and smoked paprika but isn’t overly spicy. You can adjust the chili flakes up or down based on your heat preference.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Beef Bolognese Recipe is one of those wonderful meals that make you feel embraced by flavor and comfort with every bite. It’s perfect for feeding family or friends on a chilly evening and offers a fresh take on a classic comfort food that everyone will enjoy. I truly hope you try making it soon and discover just how delicious pumpkin and beef can be when they come together in this perfect harmony.