Turkey Bolognese Recipe

This Turkey Bolognese Recipe is a healthier, lighter version of the classic Italian ragù, made with lean ground turkey for a flavorful and hearty meal. Packed with vegetables, herbs, and rich tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. Enjoy it over pasta, spaghetti squash, or even as a filling for lasagna. With its savory and robust flavors, this turkey bolognese will satisfy even the pickiest eaters, all while being lower in fat and calories compared to traditional beef bolognese.

Description:

This Turkey Bolognese Recipe brings a fresh, lighter twist to the traditional Italian meat sauce, replacing ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner, healthier alternative. Whether you’re trying to cut back on red meat or simply want to enjoy a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor, this Turkey Bolognese Recipe does not disappoint. It offers the same rich, savory depth as the classic bolognese but with fewer calories and less fat.

The foundation of this Turkey Bolognese Recipe lies in finely chopped vegetables—onions, carrots, and celery—so that every bite is a balanced mix of textures and flavors. These vegetables are sautéed until soft and aromatic, creating a flavor-packed base for the turkey. The lean ground turkey is then browned and added to the mix, providing a protein boost without the added calories of fattier meats.

Next, a combination of crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine (optional) are stirred in, creating a rich, tangy sauce that will simmer slowly and develop a deep, hearty flavor. Fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil give the dish that signature Italian flair, while a touch of garlic enhances the aroma. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can be added at the end for an extra layer of flavor, but even without it, the Turkey Bolognese Recipe is utterly delicious.

This Turkey Bolognese Recipe is not only great for traditional pasta dishes but also pairs wonderfully with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a gluten-free or low-carb option. It’s a versatile, family-friendly recipe that will quickly become a weeknight favorite. You can even make a big batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for later use, or freeze it for a quick meal on busy days.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground turkey (preferably lean or extra lean)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 cup red wine (optional)
1 cup chicken broth (or water)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
1 lb pasta (whole wheat or gluten-free, optional for serving)

Instructions:

Prepare the Vegetables: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Cook the Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and the dried herbs (oregano, basil, thyme). Cook until the turkey is browned and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes.
Add Garlic and Tomato Paste: Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Deglaze the Pan: If using, pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to reduce for about 2-3 minutes.
Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth (or water) to the pan. Stir well, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes, uncovered, to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Prepare Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook your pasta according to package instructions. If you’re opting for a low-carb alternative, spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash work wonderfully as well.
Serve: Once the sauce is ready, serve the turkey bolognese over the cooked pasta or zucchini noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this healthier version of bolognese.

Notes:

Storage: This turkey bolognese recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop over low heat.
Wine Substitution: If you prefer to skip the wine, you can use extra chicken broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar to add some depth of flavor.
Low-Carb Options: Serve this sauce over zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb, gluten-free meal.
Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time. The flavors deepen and develop as it sits.