Do Share Recipe

Creamy Beef Bolognese with Roasted Peppers | Rich & Savory | Rich & Savory

I have to admit, the first time I made this Creamy Beef Bolognese with Roasted Peppers Recipe, I was instantly hooked. The combination of tender ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese makes it feel indulgent yet comforting. I love how the roasted peppers add a subtle sweetness without any extra prep. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

After trying it a few times, I’ve discovered a few tips that make it even more flavorful. If you enjoy hearty meals, you might also love the Rotisserie Chicken Dip Recipe for a creamy, flavorful twist.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy, cheesy delight. I also added a few tips to help you get the best flavor.

9 ounces pasta – I prefer tagliatelle or rigatoni; it holds the sauce beautifully.
3 tbsp olive oil – use extra virgin for richer flavor.
1 onion, finely diced – fresh onions make a big difference; skip frozen.
3 garlic cloves, minced – fresh garlic is key for that punchy aroma.
1.1 pounds ground beef – choose 80/20 for juiciness.
1 tsp salt – adjust to taste.
1 tsp black pepper – freshly ground gives the best flavor.
1 tsp sweet paprika – adds depth and a subtle smokiness.
1 tsp dried oregano – balances the tomato sweetness.
1 tsp chili flakes – optional, for a gentle heat.
1 jar (10 oz/290 g) roasted bell peppers, drained – jarred saves prep time.
½ cup chicken broth – keeps the meat moist while cooking.
1 cup crushed tomatoes – go for quality canned tomatoes for richer taste.
2 tbsp tomato paste – intensifies the tomato flavor.
¾ cup heavy cream – heavy cream works best; half-and-half may curdle.
5.5 ounces grated cheddar – sharp cheddar gives bold flavor.
Grated Parmesan – for serving.
Fresh thyme – optional, adds an herbal aroma.

Note: Serves 4 generously.

Variations

You can tweak this recipe to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences:

Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also enjoy a Rotisserie Chicken Enchiladas Recipe for another delicious chicken twist.
Mix in a handful of fresh spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Add smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a flavor boost.

Cooking Time

Here’s the time breakdown so you can plan your meal:

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large pot – for boiling pasta.
Large skillet or deep pan – to cook the beef and sauce.
Wooden spoon – for breaking up meat and stirring sauce.
Grater – for cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
Knife and cutting board – for chopping onions and garlic.

How to Make Creamy Beef Bolognese with Roasted Peppers

Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of boiling, salted water. Cook it just until al dente, about a minute less than the package instructions. This ensures it finishes cooking perfectly in the sauce.

Sauté Aromatics and Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Sauté the onions and garlic for a couple of minutes until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef and season with salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and chili flakes. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.

Add Peppers, Broth, and Tomatoes

Stir in the roasted bell peppers, then pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Add the tomato paste and simmer for about 10 minutes. This lets the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.

Finish with Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat, stir in the cream, and toss in the pasta. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until everything is coated in the luscious sauce. Finally, add the cheddar and stir until melted. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan and fresh thyme if desired.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience, a few tweaks make this even better:

I always use freshly grated cheese; pre-shredded tends to be less creamy.
Letting the sauce simmer a bit longer deepens the flavor.
Don’t overcook the pasta; it continues cooking in the sauce.
I like to drain some of the roasted pepper liquid for a richer sauce.
Taste and adjust seasoning before adding cream; it balances everything.

How to Serve Creamy Beef Bolognese with Roasted Peppers

This dish shines best when plated beautifully:

Serve the pasta in a shallow bowl, letting the sauce coat each piece.
Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and fresh thyme.
A drizzle of olive oil or a side of garlic bread elevates the presentation.
Pair with a fresh side salad to balance the richness.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough idea of the nutrition per serving:

Calories: 751 kcal – hearty and filling.
Protein: 33 g – thanks to the ground beef.
Carbohydrates: 59 g – mostly from pasta.
Fat: 42 g – rich and creamy, with saturated fat from cheese and cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigerating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to keep it creamy.

Freezing

Freeze the sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat over medium heat.

Reheating

Warm gently on the stove, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this creamy beef bolognese should be on your dinner rotation:

Quick and easy – ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
Comfort food – creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
Versatile – swap proteins, add veggies, or use different pasta types.
Make-ahead friendly – stores well for meals later in the week.
Family favorite – even picky eaters enjoy this rich, satisfying dish.

This creamy beef bolognese with roasted peppers is a winner in my kitchen every time. With minimal prep, maximum flavor, and plenty of room for customization, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Ben Carraoli