Kids' Hidden Veggie Protein Pasta Bolognese
A secret-weapon Bolognese loaded with puréed carrots, zucchini, and spinach that kids will never detect — all they taste is a rich, meaty pasta sauce with an extra protein boost.
INVENTORY LIST
MEAL PREP LOGISTICS
- Storage: Refrigerate sauce for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Store pasta separately.
- Batching: The key is blending the vegetables until absolutely smooth — no chunks means no complaints from picky eaters.
- Reheat: Reheat sauce on the stove or in the microwave for 2 minutes. Cook fresh pasta or microwave leftover pasta with a splash of water.
EXECUTION STEPS
VEGGIE STEAM-SAUTÉ
Add carrot, zucchini, spinach, and beef broth to a blender. Blend until completely smooth — this is the "hidden veggie" purée.
HIGH HEAT SEAR
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef for 6-7 minutes, breaking into small crumbles. Drain any excess fat.
THE MACRO PREP
Add diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
THE MACRO PREP
Pour in the marinara sauce and the veggie purée. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
STEP 5
Simmer the sauce on low for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
STEP 6
While sauce simmers, cook protein pasta according to package directions. Drain.
STEP 7
Toss pasta with the Bolognese sauce. Serve topped with Parmesan cheese.
PRIMARY CATEGORY
EXPLORE MORE One Pan ProteinFULL EXECUTION PLANS
5-DAY HIGH PROTEIN MUSCLE GAIN PLAN ›GROCERY LIST
servings
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef (90%)
- 12 oz high-protein pasta (like Barilla Protein+)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 medium carrot, roughly chopped
- 1 small zucchini, roughly chopped
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste