Spaghetti Sauce Made With Ground Turkey
Spaghetti sauce made with ground turkey is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional beef-based sauces. It's a great way to incorporate lean protein into your diet and is perfect for those who are looking for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. In this article, we'll be sharing a recipe for spaghetti sauce made with ground turkey that is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper to the pot and stir to combine.
- If using, add the red wine and stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti and enjoy!
This recipe makes enough sauce for about 6-8 servings, depending on how much sauce you like on your pasta.
Benefits of Using Ground Turkey
Using ground turkey in your spaghetti sauce is a great way to incorporate lean protein into your diet. Turkey is a great source of protein, with 4 ounces of ground turkey containing around 20 grams of protein. It's also lower in fat than ground beef, making it a healthier option for those who are watching their fat intake.
Additionally, turkey is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, niacin, and selenium.
Tips for Making the Best Spaghetti Sauce
Here are some tips to help you make the best spaghetti sauce possible:
- Use high-quality ingredients. This includes fresh herbs, good-quality canned tomatoes, and fresh garlic and onion.
- Let the sauce simmer. Allowing the sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes helps to develop the flavors and creates a richer, more complex sauce.
- Adjust the seasoning as needed. Taste the sauce periodically and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt or pepper, or even some sugar if the sauce is too acidic.
- Don't overcook the pasta. Cook your pasta until it is al dente, or still slightly firm to the bite. Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy and can ruin the texture of the dish.
Conclusion
Spaghetti sauce made with ground turkey is a delicious and healthy option that is perfect for those who are looking for a lighter alternative to traditional beef-based sauces. With this recipe, you can enjoy all the flavor of spaghetti sauce without the guilt. Try it out for your next spaghetti dinner!