Veal Sauce
A hearty veal sauce with garlic, parsley, and tomato flavor, perfect for pairing with pasta. Suitable for quick family dinners or comforting meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan.
- Saute minced garlic, ground veal, and minced parsley until lightly browned.
- Add tomato sauce and water to the saucepan.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions.
- Drain the cooked pasta.
- Serve the veal sauce over the cooked macaroni.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the veal a bit longer and adding a splash of red wine during cooking. You can substitute ground turkey or beef if veal is unavailable. Using fresh parsley will enhance the dish, but dried can work in a pinch. To elevate the sauce, incorporate crushed red pepper for a little heat, or serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the veal sauce over the macaroni for a comforting meal. It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a twist, consider topping with fresh basil or grated cheese. This dish is also great for meal prep, as it reheats well and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Veal Sauce contains roughly 620 calories, with 31g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (192% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (94% of the Daily Value), and potassium (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2644mg per serving (115% 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 make this veal sauce ahead of time?
Yes, this sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. In fact, the flavors often develop even more after a day. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving over freshly cooked macaroni.
What can I use instead of macaroni?
If you don't have macaroni, you can use any small pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or even zoodles for a low-carb option. Each shape will hold the sauce differently, so choose based on your preference for texture.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
Certainly! You can replace the ground veal with a plant-based meat substitute or finely chopped mushrooms and lentils for a hearty texture. Adjust the seasoning to enhance flavors, and keep the rest of the recipe the same for a delicious vegetarian option.
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).