This Creamy Beef and Mushroom Spaghetti with Green Peas is a comforting and hearty pasta dish perfect for any night of the week. The tender spaghetti is coated in a rich, flavorful sauce made with ground beef, mushrooms, and a touch of cream. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s a surefire family favorite that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients (3-4 Servings 🍝)
- Pasta:
- 300 g (10.5 oz) spaghetti (durum wheat), cooked al dente
- Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 300 g (10.5 oz) ground beef
- 8 mushrooms, diced
- 300 ml (1 ½ cups / 10.5 fl oz) vegetable stock
- 200 g (7 oz) green peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 200 ml (1 cup / 7 fl oz) heavy cream
- Seasonings:
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Herbal mixture (e.g., Italian seasoning or dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Garnish:
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spoon.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Stir in the diced mushrooms and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the green peas, tomato paste, and vegetable stock. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and the herbal mixture. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Serve:
- Plate the spaghetti and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of garlic bread or crusty baguette.
- Serve with a fresh green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
- Pair with a glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Chianti.
- Serve with roasted or steamed vegetables on the side.
Cooking Tips
- Cook the spaghetti al dente, as it will absorb some of the sauce when mixed.
- Use fresh herbs if available for a burst of flavor.
- Swap heavy cream for a lighter option like half-and-half if desired.
- Adjust seasoning to taste after the sauce has simmered to ensure balanced flavors.
- For added depth, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the vegetable stock.
Nutritional Benefits
- Ground beef provides a good source of protein and iron.
- Mushrooms are low in calories and rich in antioxidants.
- Green peas offer fiber and vitamins A, C, and K.
- Durum wheat pasta provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free spaghetti.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- The creamy sauce with mushrooms and peas adds a rich and satisfying flavor.
- It’s highly customizable to fit various dietary needs.
- The combination of simple ingredients creates a balanced and delicious meal.
Conclusion
This Creamy Beef and Mushroom Spaghetti with Green Peas is the ultimate comfort food that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to adapt for different preferences and is perfect for sharing with family or friends. The combination of creamy sauce and al dente pasta makes every bite a delight. Try it today and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, fettuccine, or any sturdy pasta will work well. - Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, replace ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils, and use vegetable stock. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months. - What herbs are best for the herbal mixture?
Italian seasoning, or a combination of dried basil, oregano, and thyme, works well. - Can I use fresh cream instead of heavy cream?
Yes, fresh cream can be used, but it may result in a thinner sauce. - How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach make great additions. - What type of mushrooms should I use?
Button mushrooms, cremini, or shiitake work well in this recipe. - Can I substitute the vegetable stock?
Yes, chicken or beef stock can be used for a richer flavor. - How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Toss the cooked pasta with a little olive oil if it’s not being mixed with the sauce immediately.