Guilt-Free Goodness: Flavorful Spaghetti & Meat Dinners Under 299 Calories

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Pour 1 tbsp olive oil into a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
2. 2

   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let it brown.
3. 3

   Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and broth to the pot. Stir in basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4

   While the sauce simmers, heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the extra-lean ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with garlic powder and onion powder.
5. 5

   Cook the beef, stirring occasionally, until fully browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
6. 6

   Add the browned beef directly to the simmering tomato sauce. Stir to combine and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. 7

   Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the dried spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.
8. 8

   Drain the spaghetti thoroughly. Divide the cooked spaghetti into four equal portions (approx. 2 oz dry weight per serving).
9. 9

   Top each spaghetti portion with approximately 1 cup of the lean beef and tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a very light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
10. 10

    Serve immediately and enjoy your guilt-free, flavorful dinner!