Homemade Turkey Bolognese Recipe

If you’re looking for a healthier twist on the classic Italian favorite, Turkey Bolognese is the perfect choice. Using ground turkey instead of beef or pork makes this dish lighter while still delivering rich, comforting flavors. This homemade recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) ground turkey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely diced
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked pasta of your choice

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery finely. These vegetables, known as a soffritto, form the flavor base of the Bolognese sauce.

2. Cook the Turkey

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Remove the turkey from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery until softened and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.

4. Add Tomato Ingredients

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes. Then add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Return the cooked turkey to the pan.

5. Simmer the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

7. Serve

Serve the turkey Bolognese sauce over the cooked pasta. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.

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This homemade turkey Bolognese is a delicious, lighter alternative to the traditional recipe. Its rich flavors and hearty texture make it a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.