Zucchini bolognaise

Zucchini Bolognaise offers a hearty spin on the classic Italian dish, featuring fresh zucchini and ground beef for added flavour and nutrition. This simple recipe combines pasta with a rich sauce for a satisfying meal.

04 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

12 oz pasta
2 tsp olive oil
1 onion
1 carrot
1 stalk celery
2 garlic cloves
18 oz ground beef (80/20%)
1/3 cup pasta sauce
1 large zucchini

Zucchini Bolognese is a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish, incorporating fresh zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a hearty and healthy meal. Follow these steps to create a satisfying dinner that’s sure to impress.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the pasta is cooking, finely chop the onion, carrot, and celery.
- Mince the garlic and grate the zucchini.

3. Cook the Beef:
- Heat 2 tsp of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

4. Brown the Beef:
- Increase heat to medium-high.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until it's no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 6-8 minutes.

5. Add the Sauce:
- Add 1/3 cup of pasta sauce to the pan, stirring it well with the beef and vegetables mixture.
- Stir in the grated zucchini and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the zucchini is tender and heated through.

6. Combine and Serve:
- Add the drained pasta to the pan with the bolognaise sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully made a savory and nutritious Zucchini Bolognese. This dish is perfect for family dinners and gatherings. Serve hot, and enjoy the blend of rich flavors and healthy ingredients. Buon appetito!

Zucchini bolognaise FAQ:

What pasta works best for this Zucchini Bolognese?

Any type of pasta works well, but shorter shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce better. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be used as alternatives.

How long does it take to cook the pasta for this recipe?

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, typically around 8-12 minutes, until al dente.

Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it?

Yes, you can make Zucchini Bolognese ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

What can I use instead of ground beef in this recipe?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.

How do I know when the Zucchini Bolognese is done cooking?

The dish is done when the zucchini is tender and heated through, which takes about 3-4 minutes after adding it to the beef and sauce mix.

Tips:

- For a richer flavor, let the sauce simmer for an extra 15-20 minutes.

- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute.

- Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added depth of flavor.

- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier alternative.

- Consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce for an extra layer of complexity.

- Make sure to drain excess fat from the ground beef to avoid a greasy sauce.

- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be added just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 690kcal
Protein 36g
Carbohydrates 77g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 9g
Fat 30g

Zucchini bolognaise