Turkey Spaghetti Sauce

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Italian

A hearty turkey spaghetti sauce with fresh herbs, peppers, and garlic, perfect for a flavorful, wholesome family meal that suits those seeking a comforting, low-fat pasta dish.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground turkey
  • 1 green pepper
  • 1 medium onion
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 2 Tbsp. picante salsa
  • 1 Tbsp. basil
  • 1 Tbsp. cilantro
  • 1 Tbsp. dried beef broth
  • 1 large jar Ragu spaghetti sauce
  • sauteed mushrooms (optional)

Instructions

  1. Saute diced green pepper, onion, and minced garlic in olive oil.
  2. Mix in picante salsa, basil, cilantro, and dried beef broth.
  3. Add browned ground turkey and Ragu spaghetti sauce.
  4. Simmer for 1 hour.
  5. Serve over cooked pasta.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while simmering. If you don't have ground turkey, lean ground beef can be used as a substitute. Fresh herbs can replace dried ones for a more vibrant taste. You can also add sautéed mushrooms for an extra depth of flavor, which pairs beautifully with My Italian Spaghetti Sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the turkey spaghetti sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne. It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. If you're in the mood for something more traditional, browse more Italian recipes for inspiration. Grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a delightful finishing touch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, but be sure to cover the dish to prevent splatters and ensure even heating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Turkey Spaghetti Sauce contains roughly 243 calories, with 10g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (160% of the Daily Value), iron (66% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

243 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.9g 20% DV
Total Fat 9.5g 12% DV
Carbs 33.6g 12% DV
Fiber 4g 14% DV
Sugar 4.3g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 331mg 14% DV
Potassium 1220.5mg 26% DV
Cholesterol 3mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 94.2mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 144mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0.7mcg 3% DV
Calcium 335.2mg 26% DV
Iron 12mg 66% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal

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 the turkey spaghetti sauce?

Yes, this turkey spaghetti sauce freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.

How can I make this sauce spicier?

To add heat to your sauce, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking. You can also use a spicier picante salsa or hot sauce to elevate the flavor profile.

What type of pasta works best with this sauce?

While spaghetti is a classic choice, this turkey sauce complements various pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. The key is to choose a pasta that can hold the sauce well, enhancing each bite.

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).

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