Nutrition Facts for Heart-healthy penne pasta with meatballs

Heart-Healthy Penne Pasta with Meatballs

Indulge in a wholesome twist on classic comfort food with this Heart-Healthy Penne Pasta with Meatballs recipe! Featuring tender, protein-packed meatballs made from lean ground turkey and rolled oats, this dish is paired with hearty whole grain penne pasta and a rich, flavorful low-sodium tomato sauce. Seasoned to perfection with garlic, onion, and oregano, each bite is bursting with savory goodness while being mindful of your health. Simmered together for ultimate flavor harmony and garnished with fresh basil, this quick yet satisfying meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Ready in under an hour, this nutritious Italian-inspired recipe delivers on both taste and health, making it a go-to option for a heart-conscious lifestyle.

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100
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Image of Heart-Healthy Penne Pasta with Meatballs
Prep Time:20 mins
Cook Time:30 mins
Total Time:50 mins
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces whole grain penne pasta
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups low-sodium tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and cook the whole grain penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

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

Step 3

Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set them on a plate.

Step 4

In a large non-stick skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 5

Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.

Step 6

In the same skillet, add the low-sodium tomato sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 7

Return the meatballs to the skillet, covering them with the sauce, and let them simmer for 5-7 minutes.

Step 8

Stir in the cooked penne pasta and toss gently to coat with the sauce.

Step 9

Serve the pasta and meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your heart-healthy meal!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size (1431.7g)
Amount per serving % Daily Value*
Calories 2610.8
Total Fat 86.3g 0%
Saturated Fat 20.4g 0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.6g
Cholesterol 563.5mg 0%
Sodium 2014.7mg 0%
Total Carbohydrate 330.8g 0%
Dietary Fiber 39.2g 0%
Total Sugars 47.0g
Protein 164.4g 0%
Vitamin D 53.8IU 0%
Calcium 520.2mg 0%
Iron 25.2mg 0%
Potassium 3701.5mg 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: 28.2%
Protein: 23.8%
Carbs: 48.0%