These Zucchini Noodles with Meat Sauce are a perfect twist on a low carb pasta like spaghetti Bolognese that features spiralized zucchini with a rich and flavorful meat sauce.
Jump To:
- Why choose zucchini noodles?
- Ingredients for the Zucchini Noodles with Meat Sauce
- Step by step instructions
- How to make easy zucchini noodles with ground beef?
- Recipe Tips
- No Spiralizer? No Problem
- Variations
- Nutritional Information
- What to serve with zoodles?
- More zucchini recipes
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Latest Recipes
- Recipe Card
Why choose zucchini noodles?
- Low Carb: zucchini noodles or zoodles offer and low carb version of traditional pasta that is perfect for keto, paleo and blood sugar-friendly diets.
- Nutrition: rich in vitamins A and C, potassium and antioxidants.
- Fit's Most Diets: this low carb zucchini noodles recipe is suitable for Whole30, gluten free, and diabetic friendly diets.
Ingredients for the Zucchini Noodles with Meat Sauce
For the Meat Sauce:
- ½ lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup marinara sauce (look for no added sugar)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Zucchini Noodles:
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
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Step by step instructions
How to make easy zucchini noodles with ground beef?
Prepare the meat sauce:
- Spiralize the zucchinis and lightly sprinkle with salt. Let them sit in a colander for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry with paper towels. Set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
- Stir in the low-carb marinara sauce and simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes.
Cook the zucchini noodles:
- While the sauce simmers, heat olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the spiralized zucchini and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
Combine and serve:
- Divide the zucchini noodles onto plates, top with the meat sauce, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Recipe Tips
- Avoid Mushy Noodles: Zucchini noodles cook very quickly; overcooking will lead to mushy noodles.
- Use a Spiralizer: Using a spiralizer creates uniform noodles and works best.
- Storage: Store uncooked zoodles in an airtight container wrapped in paper towels to avoid moisture.
No Spiralizer? No Problem
You can still make zucchini noodles without a spiralizer! Try a julienne peeler for thin strands or use a regular vegetable peeler to create wide ribbons. In a pinch, a sharp knife works too-just slice the zucchini into thin strips by hand.
Variations
- Spicy: for a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Vegetarian: replace meat sauce with crumbled tofu or lentils.
- Cheesy Spaghetti: Mix in some mozzarella or creamy ricotta for a creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 226
- Fat 15
- Carbs 7g
- Fiber 2g
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 16g
Note: Values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.
What to serve with zoodles?
- Salad: fresh crispy greens or this tasty Tomato Burrata Salad will be a great side to this recipe.
- Roasted Cauliflower or Broccoli: this Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Dressing is a perfect match to this dish.
Meal Prep Recipes!
Discover simple and delicious meal prep ideas tailored for a diabetic-friendly, low-carb lifestyle.
More zucchini recipes
- Zucchini Veggies Pasta with Lemon and Asparagus
- Low Carb Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters
- Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
- Low Carb Zucchini Boats
- For more low carb pasta ideas you must have a look at this Best Keto Pasta Noodles article.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make zucchini noodles ahead of time?
Yes, spiralize the zucchini and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Pat dry before cooking to remove excess moisture.
How do I prevent zucchini noodles from being watery?
Salt the noodles and let them sit for 10 minutes, then blot with paper towels to draw out moisture.
What protein alternatives can I use in the meat sauce?
Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based proteins like lentils or tofu work well as substitutes.
Tried this recipe? If so, please leave a comment and ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating.
Recipe Card
Zucchini Noodles with Meat Sauce (Low-Carb Comfort)
These Zucchini Noodles with Meat Sauce are a perfect twist on a low carb pasta like spaghetti Bolognese that features spiralized zucchini with a rich and flavorful meat sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis spiralized
- ½ lb ground beef
- 1 cup low-carb marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
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Instructions
- Spiralize the zucchinis and lightly sprinkle with salt. Let them sit in a colander for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry with paper towels. Set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
- Stir in the low-carb marinara sauce and simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes.
- While the sauce simmers, heat olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the spiralized zucchini and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
- Divide the zucchini noodles onto plates, top with the meat sauce, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
If you prefer your zucchini noodles a bit softer, simply sauté them for an extra minute or two - just don't overdo it or they'll turn watery. Leftovers? Store the meat sauce and zoodles separately for the best texture when reheating. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights or simple meal prep.
Important Information
For more information, tips and variations please review the recipe video and content above and below the recipe card.
Updates and Revisions
If the video and recipe card differ, follow the recipe card for the latest ingredients and instructions.
Nutritional Information
Nutrition info is estimated and varies by ingredients, measurements, and portions.
Nutrition
Calories: 226kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g
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Food safety
- Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands after touching raw meat
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooked food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more food guidelines
Oscar Chimenti says
My family loved it! Super easy to make and full of flavor. Even the kids didn’t miss the pasta!