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Kid-Friendly Quick Dinners Top 1 Speedy Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe with Nutrition Facts to prepare nutritious meals that kids will love can be challenging.
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FAMILY-FRIENDLY DINNERS Speedy Spaghetti Bolognese! This recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, we’ve got all the nutrition facts you need to keep things healthy and balanced. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in!
Kid-Friendly Quick Dinners Speedy Spaghetti Bolognese Recipe with Nutrition Facts
Ingredients Before we get started, let’s gather everything we need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
- Olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
First things first, let’s prep our ingredients. Chop the onion, dice the carrot and celery, and mince the garlic. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
Step 2: Cooking the Meat
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s browned all over, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Adding the Vegetables
Once the meat is browned, toss in the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are soft, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Simmering the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and broth. Sprinkle in the oregano and basil. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Cooking the Spaghetti
While your sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 6: Combining Everything
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together so the pasta is well-coated with the rich, meaty sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Bolognese
Choosing the Right Meat
For a traditional Bolognese, beef is the go-to. However, ground turkey works wonders if you’re looking for a leaner option. Both bring unique flavors to the dish, so choose what suits your taste and dietary needs.
Enhancing the Flavor
Want to elevate your Bolognese? A splash of red wine can add depth to the sauce. Just be sure to let it cook down so the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind a rich flavor.
Perfecting the Texture
The secret to a luxurious Bolognese sauce is patience. Letting the sauce simmer longer allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to become perfectly thick and rich.
Nutrition Facts
Curious about the nutritional breakdown of this hearty meal? Here’s the scoop:
Caloric Content
A typical serving of Spaghetti Bolognese (about 1.5 cups) contains roughly 450-500 calories. This makes it a satisfying main dish that fits well into a balanced diet.
Macronutrients Breakdown
- Protein: With ground beef or turkey, each serving packs a protein punch, typically around 25-30 grams.
- Carbohydrates: The pasta provides about 60-70 grams of carbs per serving, offering energy to keep you going.
- Fats: Depending on the meat and amount of olive oil used, expect around 15-20 grams of fat.
Vitamins and Minerals
This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s also nutritious! You’ll get a good dose of vitamin A (from the carrots), vitamin C (from the tomatoes), and iron (from the meat). Plus, the onions and garlic bring antioxidant benefits to the table.
Variations of Spaghetti Bolognese
Vegetarian Option
For a meat-free version, swap the ground meat for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. You’ll still get that hearty texture and rich flavor, minus the animal products.
Gluten-Free Alternative
No gluten? No problem! Use gluten-free spaghetti or zucchini noodles. The sauce pairs wonderfully with both, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the deliciousness.
And there you have it—a speedy, scrumptious Spaghetti Bolognese that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. With easy steps and simple ingredients, you can whip up this classic Italian dish in no time. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients to keep you fueled and satisfied. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron and get cooking!
FAQs
1. Can I freeze leftover Spaghetti Bolognese? Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container, and it’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
2. What’s the best way to reheat Spaghetti Bolognese? Reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.
3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Sure thing! Just blanch and peel the tomatoes before dicing them. You might need to simmer the sauce a bit longer to achieve the same rich consistency.
4. How can I make my Bolognese sauce thicker? If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. This will help evaporate some of the liquid, making the sauce thicker.
5. What sides go well with Spaghetti Bolognese? A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are all fantastic sides that complement the flavors of Spaghetti Bolognese beautifully. Enjoy!
