Baked Spaghetti(Lo-Fat, Lo-Sugar)
A hearty baked spaghetti dish featuring lean ground beef, black olives, and a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for a comforting family dinner with a low-fat, low-sugar twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the diced bacon for 2 minutes in a large skillet.
- Add chopped onions and garlic; cook until soft.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in salt, pepper, chili powder, tomato sauce, and water.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in sliced black olives.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat spaghetti or a gluten-free alternative. If you're short on time, you can substitute the lean ground beef with a pre-cooked meat option or even shredded rotisserie chicken. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can enhance nutrition without adding significant calories. Adjust the chili powder to your taste for a spicier kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this baked spaghetti hot, topped with additional grated cheese if desired. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. For a unique twist, try serving it with a side of Italian Beef Patties for a hearty family dinner. This dish also makes for great leftovers in lunchboxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly, which will help maintain the texture of the spaghetti.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Spaghetti(Lo-Fat, Lo-Sugar) contains roughly 489 calories, with 28g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2571mg per serving (112% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze baked spaghetti?
Yes, baked spaghetti freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the lean ground beef with a meat substitute like lentils or plant-based ground meat. Additionally, adding extra vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers will enhance the flavor and texture while keeping it low-fat and low-sugar.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
A blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese works great, providing a nice melt and flavor. You can also experiment with low-fat cheese options to keep it healthier. If you prefer a sharper taste, try adding a bit of cheddar cheese on top before baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).