Ground Lamb Pasta Recipe

To make a ground lamb pasta dish, start by heating olive oil in a skillet. Brown 1 pound of ground lamb, then add chopped onions, garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in spices like oregano, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper for flavor. Deglaze with 1 cup of red wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Mix in tomato sauce and chicken broth, then combine with your choice of cooked pasta. Serve with grated Parmesan on top. You can even enhance it with seasonal veggies. There’s a lot more to explore about variations and tips.

Key Takeaways

Use ground lamb as the main protein, or substitute with other meats or dairy-free options for flexibility.
Sauté onions, garlic, celery, and carrots in olive oil before adding spices for a flavorful base.
Deglaze the skillet with red wine and then combine with tomato sauce and cooked pasta.
Enhance nutrition by incorporating vegetables like broccoli and opting for whole grain pasta.
Serve garnished with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs, alongside garlic bread or a salad for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

When you try this ground lamb pasta recipe, you’ll discover why it stands out among other pasta dishes. Here’s what makes it special:

Flexibility: You can swap ground lamb for other meats or use dairy-free alternatives. Different pasta shapes or even gnocchi can be substituted.
Nutritional benefits: Ground lamb is packed with high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, it provides a rich flavor and comforting qualities, especially in colder months.
Cooking ease: The recipe is simple, requiring only one pot and minimal chopping. You can also prepare it ahead of time.
Flavor: Ground lamb gives a unique taste, enhanced by spices like cinnamon and oregano. Adding mushrooms and red wine enriches the sauce.

With these qualities, you’ll find it both satisfying and adaptable to your preferences.

Recipe

Ground lamb pasta is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of ground lamb with a variety of herbs and spices, creating a delicious sauce that clings to your favorite pasta. This recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner and can be customized with various vegetables and pasta shapes to suit your taste. The natural richness of the lamb is balanced by the acidity of red wine and the sweetness of sautéed onions and garlic, making each bite a flavor-packed experience. To elevate the dish further, consider incorporating seasonal vegetables such as broccoli or mushrooms to add texture and nutrition.

The dish is versatile, allowing you to use different types of pasta, such as pappardelle or fusilli, which help capture the sauce beautifully. Additionally, ground lamb is a nutritional powerhouse that provides high levels of protein, iron, and zinc. Finish off with a sprinkle of grated cheese and fresh herbs for a presentation that’s as appealing as it’s delicious.

Ingredients:
– Ground lamb
– Olive oil
– Onions
– Garlic
– Celery
– Carrots
– Tomato sauce/paste
– Red wine
– Chicken broth
– Pasta (macaroni, pappardelle, fusilli, spaghetti, or linguine)
– Cayenne pepper
– Oregano
– Rosemary
– Thyme
– Cinnamon
– Cloves
– Nutmeg
– Grated Parmesan or other cheese
– Fresh herbs (for garnish)

Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground lamb and brown it, breaking it into small chunks as it cooks.
2. Once the lamb is browned, add chopped onions, minced garlic, diced celery, and carrots to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables have softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the herbs and spices, including cayenne pepper, oregano, rosemary, thyme, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Cook for an additional minute to release the flavors.
4. Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the tomato sauce or paste and chicken broth to the pan. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes to meld the flavors, stirring occasionally.
6. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
7. Once the sauce has thickened, combine it with the cooked pasta in the skillet, tossing to ensure the pasta is well coated.
8. Serve hot, garnished with grated cheese and fresh herbs, alongside garlic bread or a salad if desired.

Extra Tips:
When preparing ground lamb pasta, feel free to experiment with different vegetables or pasta shapes based on your preferences and what you have on hand.

If you’d like a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the red wine with additional chicken broth. For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dairy-free alternative.

Adjust the spices to your liking, and remember, allowing the sauce to simmer longer can enhance the flavor profile significantly. Enjoy your cooking!

Final Thoughts

As you savor your plate of ground lamb pasta, it’s important to appreciate the dish’s rich flavors and nutritional benefits. This meal packs a punch with about 490 calories and 22 grams of protein per serving. You can make it healthier by reducing olive oil or adding more vegetables.

When cooking, brown the lamb well in olive oil and let it simmer with a tomato-based sauce for at least an hour. Additionally, consider incorporating broccoli into your pasta for an extra boost of vitamins and fiber.

Don’t forget to add herbs like rosemary and thyme for extra flavor. You can serve your pasta with grated Parmesan and a side salad or garlic bread.

For a twist, try whole grain pasta for added fiber or adjust the spice level to your liking. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Ground Lamb With Another Type of Meat?

Absolutely, nearly 70% of pasta lovers experiment with meat substitutions. You can easily swap ground lamb for ground beef, pork, or chicken, but remember to adjust seasonings and cooking times for the best results.

How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

To make your dish gluten-free, swap regular pasta for gluten-free options, ensure your sauces and broths are gluten-free, and avoid cross-contamination. Always read labels carefully and adjust cooking times as needed for the pasta.

What Is the Best Type of Pasta to Use?

When you’re choosing pasta, think about the sauce’s texture. Fusilli or penne’s ridges catch flavors beautifully, while pappardelle’s broad noodles embrace rich sauces. Trust your instincts; experimenting leads to delicious discoveries that surprise you.

Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the meat and veggies, make the sauce, and even boil the pasta. Store everything separately, then just combine and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

To store leftovers properly, use airtight containers, cool them down, label with dates, and refrigerate promptly. For longer storage, freeze them in bags. Always reheat to 165°F for safe and delicious meals.