Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Quick & Easy Tempeh Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Easy Recipes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This Quick & Easy Tempeh Bolognese Spaghetti Sauce is a hearty and satisfying plant-based twist on the classic Italian dish. Made with crumbled tempeh and a flavorful tomato sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (8 oz) block tempeh, crumbled
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or tomato pasta sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Cooked spaghetti, for serving
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  2. Add crumbled tempeh and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
  3. Stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and soy sauce. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
  4. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Let simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Serve over cooked spaghetti and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free pasta.
  • You can steam tempeh for 10 minutes before crumbling to reduce bitterness.
  • This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for longer.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (sauce only)
  • Calories: 190
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg