Spaghetti with meat sauce is a classic comfort food dish that is beloved by many. However, traditional recipes for this dish can often be high in calories and fat, making it a less than ideal choice for those trying to maintain a healthy diet. Luckily, with a few simple swaps and modifications, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying plate of spaghetti with meat sauce that clocks in at under 500 calories.

To start, opt for whole wheat or chickpea pasta instead of traditional white pasta. Whole wheat pasta is higher in fiber and protein, making it a more nutrient-dense option. Chickpea pasta is even higher in protein and fiber, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their intake of these important nutrients. Both whole wheat and chickpea pasta are also lower in calories than white pasta, helping to keep the calorie count of your meal in check.

For the meat sauce, you can still enjoy a rich and flavorful sauce without all the added calories and fat. Here is a recipe for a healthy meat sauce that is sure to satisfy your pasta cravings:

Ingredients:
– 1 lb lean ground turkey or lean ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes
– 1 can of tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the ground turkey or beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot and sauté until the vegetables are soft.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the pot and stir to combine.
4. Simmer the sauce for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened and the flavors have melded together.

Once the sauce is ready, simply cook your pasta according to the package instructions, toss it with a generous serving of the meat sauce, and top it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This healthy spaghetti with meat sauce is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal that won’t derail your diet goals.

With a few simple modifications, you can enjoy a classic comfort food dish without the excess calories and fat. Give this healthy spaghetti with meat sauce recipe a try and see how delicious healthy eating can be!