Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s also light and packed with vegetables? This Zucchini Noodle Bolognese is your perfect solution. It’s a delicious and healthy beef recipe that transforms a classic comfort food into a vibrant, guilt-free dish.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. Ground turkey or a plant-based crumble also works well.
- Zucchini: The star of your “noodles.” Yellow squash can be used too.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes, pureed, are a good substitute.
- Onion & Garlic: Essential for flavor; don’t skip them!
Ingredients
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Zucchini Noodles:
- 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized or julienned
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Parmesan cheese (if not dairy-free)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (depending on beef fat content)
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or Dutch oven, spiralizer or vegetable peeler.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep this a healthy beef recipe.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion softens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Prepare Zucchini Noodles
While the sauce simmers, prepare your zucchini noodles. Use a spiralizer for uniform noodles, or a vegetable peeler to create wider “fettuccine” ribbons. You can also thinly slice them.
5. Assemble Your Dish
Divide the zucchini noodles among serving bowls. Spoon a generous amount of the hearty bolognese sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if you like. Enjoy this satisfying healthy beef recipe!
Variation Ideas
- Add diced carrots and celery to the aromatics for a more traditional soffritto base.
- Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering for extra greens.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Top with a dollop of dairy-free ricotta for a creamy element.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Zucchini Noodle Bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Keep the noodles and sauce separate if possible to prevent the zucchini from becoming too watery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this bolognese ahead of time?
A: Yes, the bolognese sauce is excellent for meal prep and can be made a day or two in advance. Store it separately from the zucchini noodles.
Q: How do I prevent zucchini noodles from being watery?
A: You can lightly sauté them for 1-2 minutes or pat them dry with a paper towel before serving. Avoid overcooking them in the sauce.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
A: Absolutely! Zucchini noodles are a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, making this a perfect healthy beef recipe for those diets.
Q: Can I use frozen zucchini noodles?
A: You can, but they tend to release more water. Thaw them completely and squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible before using.
Q: What kind of ground beef is best?
A: For a healthier option, choose lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) to reduce fat content.
Q: What if I don’t have a spiralizer?
A: No problem! You can use a vegetable peeler to create wide, flat ribbons, or a sharp knife to cut thin strips.
