Delight in the wholesome goodness of our Heart-Healthy Gnocchi with Meat Sauce, a comforting dish that doesn’t compromise on nutrition. Made with whole wheat gnocchi and a savory turkey-based meat sauce, this recipe is packed with lean protein, fresh veggies like spinach, carrots, and celery, and aromatic seasonings such as oregano and basil. Simmered to perfection with low-sodium tomatoes and a hint of Parmesan cheese, this meal is perfect for anyone seeking a balanced yet flavorful dinner option. Ready in under an hour, it’s ideal for busy weeknights while prioritizing heart-healthy ingredients and rich, satisfying flavors.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the whole wheat gnocchi according to package directions, usually about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat.
Add the lean ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked turkey from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery.
Sauté the vegetables over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent and the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the low-sodium diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, black pepper, and salt.
Simmer the sauce for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Add the cooked ground turkey back to the skillet, stirring to combine, and let simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Fold in the chopped fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Serve the cooked gnocchi topped with the turkey meat sauce.
Optional: Sprinkle each serving with a bit of grated Parmesan cheese if desired for added flavor.
Calories |
1713 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 68.4 g | 88% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.0 g | 100% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 174 mg | 58% | |
| Sodium | 4336 mg | 189% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 188.8 g | 69% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 28.7 g | 102% | |
| Total Sugars | 34.5 g | ||
| Protein | 101.4 g | 203% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1108 mg | 85% | |
| Iron | 17.1 mg | 95% | |
| Potassium | 3662 mg | 78% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.