Veggie-Loaded Spaghetti for Kids

Veggie-Loaded Spaghetti for Kids

Hidden vegetable pasta sauce: Make this easy recipe to sneak veggies into your family’s diet. Delicious and kid-approved, they’ll never know!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 small zucchini
• 2 carrots
• 1 yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

 

• Grate the zucchini and carrots (about 1.5 cups each). Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
• Add onion and garlic, sauté until onions are soft, about 3 minutes.
• Stir in zucchini, carrots, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until vegetables are wilted.
• Stir in pasta sauce, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
• Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and return to pot.
• Add 1 cup of sauce to spaghetti and toss to coat. Serve topped with extra sauce.

Video

Notes

– Grate the vegetables finely so they disappear into the sauce.
– Sauté the vegetables until truly wilted to ensure they break down.
– Simmer the sauce for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
– For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

Keyword hidden vegetable

The Technique That Makes It

One of the key techniques in this Veggie-Loaded Spaghetti is the method of finely grating or chopping the hidden vegetables—zucchini and carrots—before cooking. This not only helps them to cook down quickly and blend seamlessly into the sauce but also allows their flavors to meld with the ground beef. The Maillard reaction occurs when the ground beef is browned properly, creating a rich flavor base for the dish. To achieve this, ensure that the pan is preheated and the meat is spread evenly across the surface to allow for proper browning. Additionally, incorporating the vegetables early in the cooking process allows them to release moisture, which can help create a more flavorful sauce.

Troubleshooting

• If the sauce is too watery, simmer it longer to reduce excess liquid, concentrating the flavors.
• If the vegetables remain chunky, ensure they are grated finely or processed in a food processor before adding to the meat.
• If the dish tastes bland, adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs, and allow it to simmer to develop flavor.
• If the ground beef is tough, avoid overcooking it and consider using a higher fat content meat for better moisture retention.

Substitutions

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option without compromising flavor.
• Use spinach or kale instead of zucchini for added nutrients and a different flavor profile.
• Replace dried basil and oregano with fresh herbs for a brighter, more aromatic sauce.
• Swap out carrots for bell peppers to introduce a sweeter taste and vibrant color.

Pro tips

• Grate the vegetables finely so they disappear into the sauce.
• Sauté the vegetables until truly wilted to ensure they break down.
• Simmer the sauce for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Enjoy this nutrient-packed spaghetti that’s a win-win for both parents and kids!

Frequently asked questions

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