Go Back
–+ servings
Turkey Bolognese

Savory Turkey Bolognese: Easy One-Pot Comfort Dinner

This Turkey Bolognese is a high-protein family dinner that combines tender pasta and lean ground turkey in a delightful tomato sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Turkey Provides lean protein; substituting with ground bison or beef works well too!
  • 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Adds richness and helps sauté your veggies to perfection.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances flavor; feel free to adjust based on personal taste.
  • 1 Yellow Onion Offers a sweet aroma; you can swap it for shallots if preferred.
  • 1 Carrot Adds natural sweetness; any color carrot or parsnips can be used.
  • 1 Celery Contributes a mild crunch; can be omitted or replaced with bell pepper.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Intensifies the tomato flavor, essential for rich sauce depth.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Imparts an aromatic quality; fresh is best, but granulated can suffice.
  • 1 can Canned Crushed Tomatoes The heart of your sauce; opt for high-quality brands.
  • 1 tablespoon Calabrian Chili Paste Provides a kick of mild heat; swap for red pepper flakes if needed.
For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Mezze Rigatoni or Fusilli Pasta Perfect for absorbing the sauce; gluten-free pasta options are great too!
  • 3 cups Chicken Bone Broth Adds depth of flavor; you can also use vegetable broth for vegetarian needs.
For Serving
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Adds creaminess and flavor; fresh is highly recommended for the best results.
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Enhances flavor and serves as a colorful garnish.
  • 1 cup Ricotta Offers creaminess; can be omitted or replaced with cottage cheese for a twist.

Equipment

  • Large deep skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Turkey Bolognese
  1. In a large deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground turkey and season with kosher salt. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until the turkey is browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the chopped yellow onion, diced carrot, and chopped celery. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
  3. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 4 minced garlic cloves. Mix thoroughly for about 1–2 minutes to combine well and release aromatic flavors.
  4. Return the cooked turkey to the skillet, add 12 ounces of mezze rigatoni, 1 can of crushed tomatoes, and 3 cups of chicken bone broth. Stir until well combined and bring to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, reduce to low, cover the skillet, and let simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  6. After 15 minutes, remove the lid, stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted, and serve garnished with additional cheese, fresh basil, and optional dollops of ricotta.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 5000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Use a non-stick skillet for easier cleanup. Adjust cooking times based on pasta type and monitor frequently to prevent sticking.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!