Heart-Healthy Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs

Indulge in a guilt-free spin on an Italian favorite with this Heart-Healthy Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe, perfect for family dinners or meal prep! This wholesome take on comfort food combines whole-grain spaghetti with tender, flavor-packed turkey meatballs made with rolled oats for added fiber and nutrients. Simmered in a rich, low-sodium marinara sauce and infused with aromatic herbs like oregano and basil, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing. With lean protein, heart-smart ingredients, and no compromise on taste, it’s a delicious way to prioritize well-being. Top it off with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a restaurant-quality finish. Ready in under an hour, this lighter yet hearty meal is destined to become a weekly staple!

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces Whole-grain spaghetti
• 1 pound Lean ground turkey (93% lean)
• 0.5 cup Rolled oats
• 1 large Egg
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Dried basil
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 1 tablespoon Extra-virgin olive oil
• 24 ounces Low-sodium marinara sauce
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Cook the whole-grain spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine lean ground turkey, rolled oats, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 3

Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs (about 16 meatballs).

Step 4

Heat extra-virgin olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.

Step 5

Add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are browned.

Step 6

Add the low-sodium marinara sauce to the skillet with the meatballs. Gently stir to coat the meatballs.

Step 7

Cover the skillet and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

Step 8

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and gently toss to combine with the sauce and meatballs.

Step 9

Remove from heat and serve the spaghetti and meatballs warm, garnished with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1611.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2019.2

Total Fat 77.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 19.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.0g
Cholesterol 545.0mg	0%
Sodium 1347.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 189.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 32.1g	0%
Total Sugars 36.1g
Protein 147.4g	0%

Vitamin D 53.8IU	0%
Calcium 441.3mg	0%
Iron 22.0mg	0%
Potassium 4253.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 34.1%

Protein: 28.8%

Carbs: 37.1%