Turkey Bolognese
Try this Turkey Bolognese recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Turkey Bolognese recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 medium carrots peeled and finely chopped (about 1 1/4 cup
- 1 small yellow onion finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 pound ground turkey (i use 93% lean i wouldn’t recommend 99% lean, as it will easily dry out), or ground chicken
- 3 cloves garlic minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 cup dry red wine such as cabernet sauvignon (or substitute an additional 14.5-ounce can of crushed tomatoes)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (10-ounce) package giovanni rana tagliatelle or fe
- for serving: freshly grated parmesan chopped fresh basil, and/or chopped fresh parsley
- Carbohydrate 6.321222420119 g
- Cholesterol 0.38125 mg
- Fat 3.66077492870651 g
- Fiber 1.19350624067593 g
- Protein 0.999060702711879 g
- Saturated Fat 0.579506094693654 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (211g)
- Sodium 319.222634365011 mg
- Sugar 5.12771617944306 g
- Trans Fat 0.141514140801016 g
- Calories 102 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium high.
- Add the carrot, onion, salt, and pepper and cook until the vegetables are beginning to soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Increase the heat to medium high, add the ground turkey, and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s starting to brown, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes and cook just until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour the wine into the skillet and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, and milk and stir to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a boil, then lower the heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Taste and add additional salt, black pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the Giovanni Rana Tagliatelle or Fettuccine just until al dente.
- Drain and place in a serving bowl.
- Top with your desired amount of sauce and serve hot, sprinkled with fresh Parmesan, basil, and/or parsley.
A Weeknight Wonder: My Simple Turkey Bolognese
Life as a working mom is a whirlwind. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house somewhat tidy, finding time to cook a delicious, healthy meal often feels impossible. But I refuse to let my family eat processed food every night. So, I've developed a repertoire of quick, easy, and surprisingly satisfying recipes that keep everyone happy (and relatively well-fed!). This Turkey Bolognese is a perfect example – a hearty, flavorful dish ready in under 30 minutes.
The key to this recipe is using lean ground turkey. I prefer 93% lean; anything leaner, and the meat can become dry and crumbly. The addition of whole milk adds richness and creaminess without making the sauce heavy. And let's be honest, a little extra milk never hurt anyone! The vegetables add a lovely sweetness and texture, balancing the savory notes of the herbs and spices. I often double this recipe, so I can have leftovers for lunch the next day – a game-changer for busy days.
I’ve always been a bit of a kitchen improviser. Recipes are more like guidelines for me than strict rules. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a little more red pepper flakes. If you want a heartier sauce, throw in some mushrooms or zucchini. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. One thing that I always do is make sure that the pasta is cooked perfectly al dente, just the right amount of firmness, it's the key to a wonderful pasta dish.
This isn't just a quick weeknight meal; it's a testament to my philosophy of making time for good food, even with a busy schedule. It’s a comforting classic, elevated with a lean protein twist. And the best part? The cleanup is relatively minimal. I’m all about efficient cooking; who has time for an hour-long cleanup process after a rushed dinner? After a long day, I prefer a meal that comes together quickly and leaves me with minimal dishes to wash. I often serve this with a simple side salad – a vibrant mix of greens, tomatoes, and maybe a light vinaigrette. But honestly, it's delicious enough to stand on its own.
So, next time you’re short on time but craving a delicious, home-cooked meal, try this Turkey Bolognese. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights and a perfect way to enjoy a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a testament to the fact that nourishing meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients, bold flavors, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones, without sacrificing time or energy. Give it a try, and let me know what you think!
Pro Tip: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It’s even more flavorful the next day! Simply reheat and toss with your favorite pasta.
This recipe is a staple in my household, and I hope it becomes a favorite in yours too. Happy cooking!
