Low Fat Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce
Indulge in a hearty, guilt-free plate of **Low Fat Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce**, a wholesome twist on a classic Italian favorite! This recipe features tender whole wheat penne tossed in a robust, flavor-packed meat sauce made with lean ground turkey, crushed tomatoes, and a medley of aromatic spices like basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. With vibrant additions of sautéed onions, red bell peppers, and fresh garlic, each bite is bursting with rich, savory goodness. Ready in just 45 minutes, this healthy pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a light yet satisfying meal that doesn't skimp on flavor. Perfect for those seeking a nutritious, protein-packed dinner option, this recipe is low in fat, high in taste, and destined to become a family favorite! **Keywords:** low fat pasta, ground turkey meat sauce, whole wheat penne recipe, healthy dinner ideas.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta
- 1 lb ground turkey (lean, 93% lean)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 medium red bell pepper
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. Chop the red bell pepper into small pieces.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
Add the minced garlic and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned and fully cooked through, breaking up any large clumps with a wooden spoon, about 6-8 minutes.
Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, ensuring everything is well combined.
Add the dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Stir the sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to meld.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
Combine the cooked penne pasta with the meat sauce, tossing to coat the pasta thoroughly.
Divide the pasta into serving bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy your healthy low-fat meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2620 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 70.4 g | 90% | |
| Saturated Fat | 22.2 g | 111% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 377 mg | 126% | |
| Sodium | 4529 mg | 197% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 325.2 g | 118% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 44.9 g | 160% | |
| Total Sugars | 60.9 g | ||
| Protein | 169.0 g | 338% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 1214 mg | 93% | |
| Iron | 26.5 mg | 147% | |
| Potassium | 6206 mg | 132% | |
*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.
