This Turkey Bolognese Recipe offers a lighter twist on the classic Italian meat sauce, perfect for those seeking a healthy yet flavorful option. Made with lean ground turkey, fresh tomatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, and a blend of aromatic Italian herbs, this Turkey Bolognese Sauce simmers to perfection.
The recipe is straightforward and ideal for busy weeknights. Serve this Ground Turkey Pasta over spaghetti, rigatoni, or your favorite noodles for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Overview of Healthy Turkey Bolognese
The Healthy Turkey Bolognese is a delightful twist on the traditional Italian meat sauce, perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious yet satisfying meal. This dish features lean ground turkey, which not only reduces the fat content but also packs a protein punch, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious diners.
With its rich tomato base, this Turkey Bolognese Sauce is infused with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a savory depth that complements the ground turkey beautifully. Served over a bed of spaghetti or your preferred pasta, this dish is both hearty and wholesome, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The key ingredients in this Easy Turkey Bolognese are simple yet impactful. Lean ground turkey is the star, providing a lighter alternative to traditional beef or pork. Fresh tomatoes, along with diced onions and minced garlic, create a robust flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.
Herbs such as oregano and basil add an aromatic touch, while the optional red pepper flakes can introduce a hint of heat, allowing you to customize the sauce to your taste. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances the dish’s appeal, making it not only delicious but visually enticing as well.
Cooking Process Made Simple
Preparing this Ground Turkey Bolognese is straightforward and can be accomplished in about 45 minutes. Start by cooking your pasta of choice according to the package instructions. While the pasta cooks, brown the ground turkey in a skillet with olive oil, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Once the turkey is browned, add the chopped onions and minced garlic, allowing them to soften and infuse the dish with flavor. The next step involves adding crushed tomatoes and the blend of herbs, which will simmer together to create a thick, savory sauce reminiscent of a Turkey Ragu.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal
After the sauce has thickened, combine it with the cooked pasta, ensuring every strand is coated in the rich Ground Turkey Spaghetti Sauce. This dish is best served hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Pairing this meal with a side salad or some crusty bread can round out the dining experience, making it a fulfilling option for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Nutritional Benefits of Turkey Bolognese
One of the standout features of this Healthy Turkey Bolognese is its nutritional profile. With approximately 320 calories per serving, it offers a balanced meal without excessive calories. The lean ground turkey provides around 30 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
Moreover, the dish is low in fat, making it a great choice for those monitoring their dietary intake. The inclusion of fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhances the flavor but also contributes vitamins and minerals, making this a well-rounded meal option.
Final Touches and Presentation
When it comes to presentation, a rustic wooden table setting adds warmth to the dining experience. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the Healthy Turkey Bolognese creates an inviting look, while a fork resting beside the bowl hints at the deliciousness awaiting the diner.
Garnishing with fresh basil not only elevates the visual appeal but also adds a burst of fresh flavor that complements the rich sauce. This dish is sure to impress anyone at the table, making it a go-to recipe for both casual meals and special occasions.
Easy Turkey Bolognese Sauce Recipe
This Turkey Bolognese features ground turkey browned with onions and garlic, then simmered with crushed tomatoes and herbs until thick and savory, resembling a Turkey Ragu. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 pound pasta of choice (spaghetti, rigatoni, etc.)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Turkey: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked pasta with the Turkey Bolognese sauce until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g