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Korean Bulgogi Bolognese: Perfect for Dinner


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  • Author: Julie
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This innovative recipe fuses the bold, smoky flavors of Korean bulgogi with the rich, savory notes of Italian Bolognese. Ground beef is slowly simmered in a delicious sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and scallions, while mushrooms add depth and complexity. Served over egg pasta, this unique twist on Bolognese offers a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, making it an unforgettable dinner dish!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 cup finely chopped carrot
  • 1 cup finely chopped celery
  • 7 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons peeled minced ginger
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 4 ounces white button mushrooms, finely chopped (about 2 cups)
  • ¾ cup finely chopped scallions
  • ¾ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • ¼ cup turbinado sugar
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 12 ounces dried egg pasta (tagliatelle or pappardelle)
  • 2 tablespoons safflower or canola oil

 

  • Freshly grated Parmesan, for serving

Instructions

  • Prepare the Pasta: Cook the egg pasta (tagliatelle or pappardelle) according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water for later.
  • Make the Sauce: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the safflower or canola oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
  • Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
  • Enhance the Flavor: Stir in the tomato paste, soy sauce, turbinado sugar, and chopped mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Simmer: Add the finely chopped scallions to the mixture. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the sauce to thicken.
  • Combine: Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.

 

  • Serve: Plate the pasta and sauce, then garnish with freshly grated Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Mushrooms: If you prefer a different texture, you can swap out the mushrooms for other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
  • Spiciness: For an extra kick, add a touch of Korean gochujang (chili paste) or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

 

  • Pasta: While egg pasta like tagliatelle or pappardelle works best, you can use other types of pasta if desired.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop Cooking
  • Cuisine: Fusion (Korean-Italian)