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Turkey Bolognese

Lighter Turkey Bolognese: Comforting One-Pot Dinner Delight

Enjoy a healthier version of the classic Turkey Bolognese that's kid-approved and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Turkey Can be substituted with ground bison or lean ground beef.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Can use any neutral oil.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion (chopped) Shallots can be used as a milder alternative.
  • 1 medium Carrot (peeled and chopped) Celery can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 stalk Celery (chopped) Optional for flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Can substitute with canned tomato puree.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic is preferred.
  • 28 ounces Canned Crushed Tomatoes High-quality brands recommended.
  • 1 cup Chicken Bone Broth Vegetable broth can be used for vegetarian option.
  • 1 tablespoon Calabrian Chili Paste (optional) Skip for milder flavor.
For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Uncooked Mezze Rigatoni or Fusilli Gluten-free pasta can be used.
For Serving
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) Nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan substitute.
  • 1 handful Fresh Basil Can substitute with parsley.
  • 1 cup Ricotta (optional) Omit for a lighter option.

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in olive oil. Add the ground turkey with kosher salt, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned. Set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onion, carrot, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste and minced garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the uncooked mezze rigatoni or fusilli, browned turkey, crushed tomatoes, chicken bone broth, and optional chili paste. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese, and serve garnished with basil and ricotta if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 1000mgFiber: 7gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 180IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

This dish pairs well with a green salad or roasted vegetables.

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