Description
This Keto Zucchini Noodles with Ground Beef recipe offers a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional pasta dishes. Tender spiralized zucchini noodles are tossed with a savory ground beef and tomato sauce, flavored with garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner that’s both gluten-free and keto-friendly.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup crushed tomatoes (no sugar added)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Zucchini Noodles
- 4 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional)
- Red pepper flakes to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add seasonings and tomatoes: Stir in minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Then add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Prepare zucchini noodles: Meanwhile, pat the spiralized zucchini dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a separate skillet over medium heat, sauté the zucchini noodles for 2–3 minutes until just tender but still firm, avoiding mushiness.
- Combine noodles and sauce: Add the cooked zucchini noodles to the meat sauce and toss gently to combine. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.
Notes
- To keep zucchini noodles from getting watery, avoid overcooking and always drain excess liquid before combining with the sauce.
- You can add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
- Using fresh herbs like basil or parsley enhances the flavor but is optional.
- Ensure to spiralize zucchini just before cooking for best freshness and texture.
