Ultimate Healthy Spaghetti with Turkey Bolognese
Introduction
Craving comfort food that loves you back? Our Ultimate Healthy Spaghetti with Turkey Bolognese delivers rich, savory flavor without the heaviness. We swap traditional ground beef for lean turkey and sneak in extra veggies for a nutrient boost. This protein-packed, satisfying meal proves that weeknight dinners can be both incredibly delicious and wonderfully nourishing. It’s the perfect bowl of warmth for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 12 oz whole wheat spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)
- 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean recommended)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (no sugar added)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Pro Tips & Notes
- Boost the Veggies: Feel free to add finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini along with the carrots and celery for an extra serving of vegetables.
- Browning is Key: Ensure the turkey gets a proper sear to develop a rich, savory base for the sauce.
- Make it Ahead: The bolognese sauce tastes even better the next day! Make a double batch and freeze half for an easy future meal.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 9g
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I use ground beef instead of turkey? A: Absolutely. You can substitute with lean ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles. Cooking times may vary slightly.
- Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Q: Is this recipe gluten-free? A: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the whole wheat pasta for your favorite certified gluten-free pasta.