Low-Fat Spaghetti Sauce
A flavorful low-fat spaghetti sauce featuring lean ground chicken or turkey, rich tomato flavors, and aromatic onions, perfect for a healthy family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet sprayed with nonstick cooking spray, brown the ground meat and chopped onion.
- When the meat is cooked through, add the tomato sauce, dry spaghetti sauce mix, and water.
- Simmer over low heat for approximately 15 minutes to develop flavors.
- Serve over cooked pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano. You can substitute the ground chicken or turkey with lean ground beef for a different taste. If you're short on time, using store-bought spaghetti sauce can save you effort, though it may not be as low-fat. For an extra kick, try adding red pepper flakes or garlic powder to the mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this low-fat spaghetti sauce over whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You could also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or use it as a base for Chicken Marinara for a delightful Italian-inspired dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze the sauce for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 639 calories, with 32g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (115% of the Daily Value), protein (65% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 487mg per serving (21% 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 use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomato sauce?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! You'll need about 6-8 medium tomatoes, diced. Simmer them down until they break down into a sauce consistency before adding the dry spaghetti sauce mix. This will give your dish a fresh flavor.
Is this sauce suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This low-fat spaghetti sauce freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a great option for meal prep.
How can I make this sauce spicier?
To add more heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking the sauce. You can also stir in a spoonful of hot sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper to elevate the spice level to your preference.
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).