Quick & Easy Tempeh Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy Tempeh Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce is a hearty, plant-based alternative to traditional meat sauces, packed with protein and rich umami flavor. With crumbled tempeh as the star ingredient, it delivers a meaty texture while keeping things vegan and wholesome. Ideal for weeknight dinners, this sauce pairs beautifully with your favorite pasta and comes together in under 30 minutes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

tempehoniongarlicolive oilcrushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)tomato pastesoy sauce or tamariItalian seasoningdried oreganofresh basilsalt and black pepperred pepper flakes (optional)vegetable broth or water (for moisture)spaghetti or pasta of choice

directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Crumble the tempeh into small chunks using your hands or a grater.

Add the crumbled tempeh to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.

Stir in the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Mix in the tomato paste, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce.

Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add red pepper flakes for heat if desired.

Adjust seasoning to taste and stir in fresh basil just before serving.

Serve over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15-20 minutesTotal time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use lentils or finely chopped mushrooms instead of tempeh for a different texture.

Add chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra veggies.

Stir in a splash of plant-based milk for a creamy finish.

Top with vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for added flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a bit of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

What is tempeh?

Tempeh is a fermented soy product with a firm texture and nutty flavor, often used as a meat substitute.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the flavor deepens as it sits, making it great for meal prep.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and serve with gluten-free pasta to keep it gluten-free.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added seasonings depending on the sauce’s flavor.

How do I reduce the bitterness of tempeh?

Steam or simmer the tempeh for 10 minutes before crumbling and cooking to mellow its flavor.

Can I make this oil-free?

Yes, sauté the ingredients in a splash of water or broth instead of oil.

Is this kid-friendly?

Absolutely—just omit the red pepper flakes if your kids prefer mild flavors.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, it doubles well and freezes perfectly for future meals.

Do I need to press tempeh before using?

No pressing is necessary—just crumble and cook.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, just cook them down longer to reach a rich consistency.

Conclusion

Quick & Easy Tempeh Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce is a satisfying, nutritious, and flexible recipe that brings comfort food to your table without the meat. It’s perfect for busy nights and sure to become a staple in your weekly rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a plant-based twist on a classic favorite.

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