Low Sodium Classic Beef Bolognese Sauce
Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of this Low Sodium Classic Beef Bolognese Sauce, a heart-healthy twist on the traditional Italian favorite. Packed with extra-lean ground beef, a medley of aromatic vegetables, no-salt-added crushed tomatoes, and fragrant herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, this sauce delivers bold taste without the excess sodium. A splash of red wine (optional) adds depth, while a finishing touch of milk ensures a velvety texture. Perfect for pairing with pasta, zoodles, or as a topping for stuffed vegetables, this slow-simmered sauce is as versatile as it is wholesome. Ready in just over two hours, this recipe is ideal for meal prep and is sure to become a staple for weeknight dinners or special occasions. If you're looking for a low-sodium recipe that doesn’t compromise on flavor, this savory bolognese is the answer!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 pound extra-lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 28 ounces no-salt-added crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 0.5 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 0.25 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 0.5 cup milk
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are soft, about 8-10 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes.
Add the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Pour in the optional red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in the no-salt-added crushed tomatoes, low-sodium beef broth, oregano, basil, thyme, bay leaf, and black pepper.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors meld.
Remove the bay leaf, then stir in the milk. Simmer for another 10 minutes uncovered.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, keeping in mind the low sodium restriction.
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1529 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 70.0 g | 90% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.8 g | 99% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 351 mg | 117% | |
| Sodium | 774 mg | 34% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 75.9 g | 28% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 22.6 g | 81% | |
| Total Sugars | 40.2 g | ||
| Protein | 128.2 g | 256% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.1 mcg | 11% | |
| Calcium | 628 mg | 48% | |
| Iron | 21.7 mg | 121% | |
| Potassium | 5056 mg | 108% | |
*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.
