Description
Braised Beef Spaghetti with Parmesan
Indulge in a rich, cheesy twist on classic braised beef spaghetti, topped generously with Parmesan for extra comfort.
Ingredients
Beef braised to tenderness
Onion & garlic aromatics
Plenty of Parmesan
Spaghetti pasta
Instructions
Start with Pasta: Cook spaghetti and set aside.
Beef & Sauce: Sear beef, then simmer with onions, garlic, and tomato sauce.
Cheesy Finish: Toss pasta with sauce, top with Parmesan, and dig in!
#CheeseLovers
#ComfortInABowl
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect, flavorful dish.
- Season 500g of beef chuck (cut into 1-inch cubes) generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add 1 diced large onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Return the beef to the pot. Add 2 cups of crushed tomatoes, 1 cup of beef broth, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and a bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it braise gently for 2 to 2.5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
- About 20 minutes before the beef is done, cook 400g of spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Once the beef is tender, remove the bay leaf. Use two forks to shred the beef slightly in the pot. Toss the drained spaghetti directly into the pot with the beef sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
- Off the heat, stir in 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty pasta family-style for maximum comfort. Garnish each bowl with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a handful of fresh chopped parsley or basil. A side of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce, and a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing, crisp contrast.
How-to Summary
To make Braised Beef Spaghetti with Parmesan: Sear seasoned beef cubes until browned. Cook onions and garlic in the same pot. Combine with tomatoes, broth, and herbs, then braise for 2+ hours until tender. Cook spaghetti al dente. Shred the beef, toss with the pasta and sauce, thinning with pasta water as needed. Finish by stirring in Parmesan cheese off the heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely. The braised beef sauce tastes even better the next day. Prepare it fully, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth. Cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.
What cut of beef is best for braising? Tough, fatty cuts with lots of connective tissue become tender and flavorful when braised. Chuck roast, brisket, or short ribs are excellent choices. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin.
Can I use a different cheese? While Parmesan is classic, Pecorino Romano offers a sharper, saltier flavor. For a creamier finish, stir in a few tablespoons of mascarpone or ricotta with the Parmesan.
My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it? If your sauce is too thin after combining, let it simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes to reduce and concentrate. Alternatively, make a slurry with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of cold water, then stir it into the simmering sauce.
Can I use a slow cooker or Instant Pot? Yes. For a slow cooker, complete steps 1-3 on the stove, then transfer everything to the cooker and braise on low for 7-8 hours. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function for steps 1-3, then pressure cook on high for 45 minutes with a natural release.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not searing the beef properly: Avoid crowding the pot. Searing in batches ensures a deep, flavorful fond (browned bits) forms on the bottom of the pot, which is essential for the sauce.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook the spaghetti only until al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sauce.
- Skipping the pasta water: The starchy pasta water is crucial. It helps the sauce emulsify and cling perfectly to the noodles.
- Adding cheese over direct high heat: Always remove the pot from the heat before stirring in the Parmesan. High heat can cause the cheese to become greasy and clumpy.
Conclusion
This Braised Beef Spaghetti with Parmesan transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary comfort food experience. The long, slow braise develops deep, complex flavors in the beef, while the generous addition of Parmesan creates a luxuriously creamy and savory sauce that coats every strand of pasta. It’s a rewarding dish that is sure to become a cherished favorite for any occasion.
