If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes, this Keto Zucchini Noodle Bolognese is just the recipe for you. Packed with rich flavors and loaded with nutrients, this dish is not only a perfect choice for a cozy weeknight dinner but also aligns with your keto lifestyle. The zucchini noodles replace regular pasta, making it guilt-free yet satisfying, and the Bolognese sauce is hearty and flavorful — you won’t miss the carbs at all!
What is Keto Zucchini Noodle Bolognese?
Keto Zucchini Noodle Bolognese is a low-carb, keto-friendly version of the classic Italian pasta dish. Instead of traditional spaghetti or other pasta varieties, zucchini noodles (also known as “zoodles”) are used as a base. These are topped with a rich, flavorful Bolognese sauce made from ground beef, vegetables, crushed tomatoes, and herbs. It’s an indulgent yet healthy meal that can be enjoyed without breaking your low-carb diet.
Origin of the Recipe
Bolognese sauce, or Ragù alla Bolognese, originated in Bologna, Italy. It is a traditional meat-based sauce that’s often served with pasta, specifically tagliatelle. The recipe for Bolognese sauce has evolved over time, and many variations exist across Italy and around the world. The concept of pairing it with zucchini noodles comes from the growing trend of low-carb diets, particularly the keto diet, which eliminates high-carb foods like pasta in favor of vegetables that are lower in carbohydrates.
Ingredients for Keto Zucchini Noodle Bolognese
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or half beef, half pork for extra flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced (optional for flavor; omit for stricter keto)
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (sugar-free or low-carb brand)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- ½ cup beef broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for richness)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for some heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan, for finishing
For the Zucchini Noodles:
- 3–4 medium zucchinis
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Keto Zucchini Noodle Bolognese
1. Make the Sauce
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften and become aromatic.
- Stir in the diced carrot and celery (if using). Continue to sauté for another 3 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.
- Add the ground beef to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, and chili flakes (if using). Stir everything together, and let it simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken as it cooks.
- If you like a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles
- Spiralize the zucchinis into noodles using a spiralizer or a julienne peeler. You can also use a vegetable peeler to make thin ribbons if you don’t have a spiralizer.
- Pat the zucchini noodles dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 1–2 minutes, just until slightly softened. Do not overcook, as you want the noodles to maintain some texture and not become mushy.
- Season with salt, then remove the noodles from the pan and set aside. Drain any excess liquid before serving.
3. Combine & Serve
- Spoon the Bolognese sauce generously over the zucchini noodles.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil or any additional herbs you like.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this flavorful, low-carb alternative to pasta.
Tips & Variations for Keto Zucchini Noodle Bolognese
- Extra flavor boost: Add a splash of red wine while sautéing the ground beef for a deeper flavor profile. Just let it cook off before adding the tomatoes.
- For a creamier texture: Use a combination of mascarpone or ricotta cheese at the end of cooking. This adds a rich, creamy flavor to the sauce that enhances the dish.
- Make ahead: The Bolognese sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making it a great meal prep option.
- Use other vegetables: For a different twist, you can add more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce. They’ll blend seamlessly and add more nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Keto Zucchini Noodle Bolognese
1. Can I use other types of noodles instead of zucchini?
Yes, you can use other low-carb noodles such as spaghetti squash or shirataki noodles. However, zucchini noodles (zoodles) are the most common and keto-friendly option.
2. Is this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe is not dairy-free, as it uses Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. However, you can easily make it dairy-free by omitting the cream and using a dairy-free cheese substitute.
3. Can I make this sauce without meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat substitute for a vegetarian or vegan version of this dish.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The sauce can also be frozen for up to 3 months for easy meal prep.
5. Can I add more vegetables to the sauce?
Yes! Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach to the Bolognese sauce. It adds extra flavor and nutrients without adding many carbs.
Conclusion: Keto Zucchini Noodle Bolognese
Keto Zucchini Noodle Bolognese is a fantastic, flavorful low-carb meal that’s perfect for anyone looking to reduce their carb intake while still enjoying a hearty, satisfying dish. The zucchini noodles are the perfect base for the rich, savory Bolognese sauce. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just want a healthier alternative to traditional pasta, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Plus, with options to make the sauce ahead of time, it’s a great meal to prep and enjoy throughout the week!
