Description
A hearty and healthy Hidden Veggie Bolognese sauce featuring a blend of grated and finely chopped vegetables mixed with ground beef or turkey, simmered in a rich tomato base. Perfectly paired with pasta, this nutritious and family-friendly recipe incorporates hidden vegetables for added fiber and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying gluten-free Italian meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 zucchini, grated
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 8 ounces ground beef or turkey
- 1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve
- Cooked spaghetti or pasta of choice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the mixture becomes soft and fragrant, forming the flavor foundation of the sauce.
- Add vegetables: Stir in the grated carrot, grated zucchini, finely chopped celery, and mushrooms if using. Cook the mixture for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and blend well with the onions and garlic.
- Cook the meat: Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the ground beef or turkey to the empty side, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink, ensuring it is evenly cooked through.
- Combine and season: Mix the cooked meat and vegetables together. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef or vegetable broth, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to fully integrate all ingredients.
- Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even cooking. The sauce should thicken and the flavors will meld beautifully during this time.
- Serve: Serve the hot sauce over cooked spaghetti or your preferred pasta. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor. Enjoy immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- For a plant-based version, substitute ground beef with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- To make hidden veggies less noticeable, blend the cooked vegetables in a food processor before adding the meat.
- This sauce freezes well and can be prepared in advance for convenient, quick meals during busy weeknights.
